By Kamal Ahmed
Asesewa (E/R), May 22, GNA – In Upper Manya Krobo District, many Muslim families are reshaping longstanding Eid al-Adha traditions as soaring ram prices bite, with families increasingly pooling funds to buy cattle collectively for the annual sacrificial rites this year.
Livestock traders and buyers say increasing transportation costs, expensive animal feed and rising seasonal demand are driving prices upward ahead of the Islamic festival.
The development has forced some families to abandon plans to buy rams individually and instead contribute collectively to purchase cattle for the celebration.
At livestock markets in Asesewa and surrounding communities, buyers have begun arriving earlier than usual to secure animals before prices rise further.
Alhaji Musah Bawa, a livestock dealer at the Asesewa market, told the Ghana News Agency that demand had intensified compared to previous years.
“People are coming in early to book their animals. Some even pay deposits just to secure cattle or rams ahead of time. Every week the price goes up, and you can see the worry on people’s faces,” he said.
He explained that rams, often considered the preferred option for individual households during Eid al-Adha, had become too expensive for many families.
According to traders, cattle are currently selling above GH¢10,000 depending on size and weight, while some rams are selling for around GH¢5,000.
Mr Zakari Yussif, a livestock transporter, attributed the increases partly to rising fuel prices and transportation costs from northern Ghana and neighbouring countries.
“When fuel goes up, transport goes up. When transport goes up, the final price of the animal also increases. It is not only profit; it is survival for us,” he said.
Despite a stable livestock supply, traders said logistical challenges and operational costs continued to affect market prices.
They warned that prices could increase further in the final days before Eid al-Adha as demand peaks.
Mr Suleiman Idris, a prospective buyer, said the current market conditions had disrupted his usual Eid preparations.
“I usually buy a ram every Eid, but this time, when I went to the market, I just stood there and couldn’t decide. The price was more than I expected. I may have to join my family to contribute and buy a cow instead,” he said.
Some consumers have appealed for government intervention to help stabilise livestock prices during festive periods.
Hajia Ayisha, another buyer, said the increasing cost of livestock was becoming unbearable for ordinary families.
“I think it is important for the government to step in every year to help control prices, because the increases are becoming too much for ordinary people,” she said.
For many Muslim families in Upper Manya Krobo, the rising cost of livestock, especially rams, has transformed what is traditionally a joyful spiritual celebration into a period of financial strain and difficult choices.
GNA
Edited by D. I. Laary/Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reported by Kamal Ahmed
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