The Parliamentary Select Committee on Food, Agriculture and Cocoa Affairs has engaged representatives of Brooke West Africa and other animal welfare advocates over growing concerns about the possible extinction of donkeys in Ghana.
The engagement, led by the Committee’s Chairman, Hon. Dr. Godfred Seidu Jasaw, focused on the increasing slaughter of donkeys and the illegal trade in their skins, which are contributing to the rapid decline of donkey populations across Africa.
During the meeting, participants highlighted the important role donkeys play in rural livelihoods, particularly in agricultural transportation and supporting food security.
Concerns were also raised about illegal cross-border movements of donkeys and the need for stronger measures to prevent the depletion of the species.
The Committee stressed the importance of strengthening policy and regulatory frameworks in line with African Union and ECOWAS commitments.
Proposed interventions include tighter border enforcement, the introduction of local donkey breeding programmes and increased support for donkey farmers.
Members of the Committee reaffirmed their commitment to protecting Ghana’s donkey population, safeguarding the livelihoods of rural communities and preventing the possible extinction of the species.
By: Bernard Mensah
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