The Deputy Minister for Education and Member of Parliament for Builsa South, Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, has firmly opposed calls to ban the consumption of dog and cat meat in Ghana, describing such demands as an attack on cultural heritage and traditional dietary practices.
Dr. Apaak, who humorously refers to himself as the “President of the Global Dog Eaters Association,” revealed that he has received numerous complaints from members following a petition submitted by a civil society organization, Community Sustainability, to the Minister of Health. The group is reportedly advocating for a nationwide ban on the consumption of dog and cat meat, citing health and animal welfare concerns.
According to Dr. Apaak, this is not the first time animal rights advocates have raised concerns about the practice. However, he insisted that food choices are deeply rooted in culture and history and should not be subjected to external pressure.
“The consumption of certain types of meat is part of our cultural identity,” he emphasized. “You cannot simply erase dietary habits that have been handed down through generations. For some of us, dog and cat meat are legitimate sources of protein inherited from our forefathers. It is part of our tradition and our natural right.”
He argued that attempts to ban such practices disregard the diversity of cultural beliefs and food systems within the country.
Dr. Apaak further maintained that groups advocating against the practice are entitled to their beliefs but should not impose them on others.
“If they have chosen a different source of protein that aligns with their belief system, that is their right,” he said. “They should equally respect ours.”
Responding to claims that consuming dog and cat meat poses health risks, Dr. Apaak questioned the basis of the argument. He noted that many people who do not consume such meat still suffer from various illnesses.
“Are there not people who have never eaten dog or cat meat yet face serious health conditions?” he asked. “Disease cannot be simplistically linked to one type of food without broader scientific evidence.”
The debate has since sparked wider public discussion, highlighting tensions between cultural practices, public health considerations, and animal welfare advocacy in Ghana.
Story: Nyamebeye Kofi Ansah Sasraku