Rwanda: Modern abattoirs count losses as communities opt for home slaughtering

Abattoir operators in Gakenke and Musanze districts in the Northern Province have raised concerns over the traditional practice of home slaughtering, which is affecting their meat businesses. Both private and public slaughterhouses, including the Gakenke Slaughter House operated by SOSEFIK LTD, are facing a shortage of animals for slaughter. Mark Gakwavu, manager of the Gakenke Slaughter House, which primarily supplies Kigali City and local butcheries, says that they are operating at only 30% of their capacity due to this shortage. Gakwavu expressed concern about the persistence of unauthorized slaughtering in homes and remote areas. "Some people still have the mindset of slaughtering in undesignated places - at home or in the bushes. It's important for local authorities and security organizations to encourage the use of recognized slaughter areas," he said. Theobard Niyigaba Ikuzwe, Veterinarian for Gakenke slaughterhouse, echoed these sentiments. He pointed out the prevalence of ...