Residents protest over sorry state of abattoir

Residents in Nyakatonzi Village in Kasese Municipality have expressed concern over the poor hygiene and sanitation at Kasese abattoir, saying it could result in epidemics such as cholera.

The angry residents and a section of the workers want an explanation from the municipal council authorities as to why they have failed to maintain the standard of the abattoir.

Mr Siragi Kahonda, the chairperson of the abattoir, confirmed that the facility was in a sorry state.
“We actually, don’t understand the operations of the council. We pay our dues as required but they don’t offer the required services,” Mr Kahonda said.

“We may end up suffering from cholera because there is stagnant water with blood and cow-dung at the abattoir, bad smell and soon this meat will not be healthy for our bodies” he said. 

Mr Vincent Kimera, another butcher-man, said they pay Shs16,000 per head of cattle slaughtered at the abattoir.  

“The entire place is dirty. Where do they take our dues? We need government intervention,” Mr Kimera said.

Mr Saidi Zahabu, another resident, said the entire place is in a mess. “The whole place is dirty. We have raised the concern to the municipal council but nothing has been put in place,” Mr Zahabu said.

Mr Godfrey Kabbyanga, the town mayor, attributed the dire situation at the abattoir to less revenue collected locally but promised to make a follow up.

“It is true the pit latrine is full and it needs to be emptied and fixed. Supervision by the health team will also be emphasised from time to time to monitor the situation,” Mr Kabbyanga said.

The mayor further noted that the design of the abattoir needs to be changed such that the drainage system is up to date.