By Alan Clement
The Central Equatoria State Ministry of Animal Resources and Fisheries has issued a renewed directive banning with immediate effect the slaughter of animals in unlicensed slaughter sites across Juba.
The decision followed an inspection visit by the Minister of Animal Resources and Fisheries, Alex Lotiyu Elia, to two unlicensed slaughter grounds in Jebel Kujur, Munuki Block, and another in Jebel Market, Kator Block.
During the visit, the Minister expressed grave concern over the unhygienic conditions and public health risks posed by these operations. “One of the slaughter places is operating right inside a residential area, which is not safe. People can easily contract diseases,” Minister Lotiyu stated.
He emphasized that the government will not tolerate the illegal slaughtering of cattle and goats, warning that such practices expose communities to serious health risks.
He directed security organs to enforce the ban, arrest individuals involved, and confiscate any meat from illegally slaughtered animals.
“We will continue to frustrate these efforts and discourage illegal slaughtering of animals in residential areas and open places,” he stated.
The inspection revealed that despite previous ministerial orders suspending illegal slaughter grounds, some operators had resumed activities in defiance of government regulations.
“Our people are very stubborn. They used to come back again to slaughter,” the Minister noted, adding that the ministry’s inspection teams will continue to shut down such operations when discovered
The Chairperson of the Central Equatoria State Butchers’ Union, Angelo Wani Nyombe, welcomed the renewed ban and pledged compliance.
“As the Minister has ordered slaughtering to stop in these places, this is clear and we will enforce the order,” Wani said.
He expressed concern that illegal slaughter sites may be linked to livestock theft. “Such unlicensed slaughter places could even be slaughtering stolen animals, and this might be contributing to animal theft,” Wani warned.
The Ministry has urged livestock owners to use the authorized slaughterhouses in Gumbo and Gudele, where health and safety standards are maintained.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring and enforcement, with support from local authorities and the butchers’ union.
“We will continue to respond if there are any incidents of slaughtering animals in residential areas,” Minister Lotiyu emphasized.