Ghanaian bushmeat traders form a national association to streamline the sector

GHANA – Bushmeat traders and hunters across Ghana are organizing under a newly launched body, the National Bushmeat Association of Ghana, as part of efforts to regulate a largely informal industry.

The formation of the association is aimed at addressing persistent issues within the sector, ranging from poor hunting practices to inconsistent market prices.

One of its main priorities is to guide hunters on sustainable methods that help preserve animal populations and protect the country’s biodiversity.

The group also plans to set hygiene standards and monitor bushmeat quality to reduce the risk of health complications from contaminated meat.

According to its founders, the association will work to bring together bushmeat actors, enabling better collaboration and responses to shared challenges.

Part of the initiative includes efforts to control pricing structures and curb hoarding, practices that often disrupt supply and put pressure on buyers.

In addition, the association says it will advocate for hunting methods that do not threaten endangered species or harm the ecosystem.

The health impact of bushmeat was also discussed during the association’s launch, with leaders suggesting that meat from wild grass-fed animals may be suitable for individuals managing conditions like hypertension and diabetes due to its lower fat content.

Despite the group’s ambitions, the bushmeat trade still faces significant obstacles, particularly environmental ones such as bushfires that destroy habitats and force animal migration.

These fires, which frequently occur in some regions, contribute to the risk of extinction for certain species and complicate efforts to ensure a sustainable supply of bushmeat.

To lead the new organization, traders elected Madam Comfort Badu as President and Mr. Patrick Essumang as Secretary, both of whom are expected to oversee the implementation of the group’s goals.

In Ghana, bushmeat continues to serve as a vital source of protein, especially in rural communities, where an estimated 48,277 animal carcasses are sold each year at markets such as Fumbisi, Sandema, and Chiana.

While bushmeat remains popular, the country also produces other meats; for instance, in 2021 Ghana produced 30,280 metric tons of beef, a 4.9% rise from previous years.

That same year, Ghana was ranked 109th globally in beef production, with Namibia matching its output of 30,280 metric tons.

As of 2021, Ghana’s meat industry, including bushmeat and livestock, continues to play a crucial role in meeting the nation’s dietary needs amid ongoing calls for more structured management.

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.