Kumasi’s Mayor, Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi, has issued a firm ultimatum to owners of stray cattle, declaring that any livestock found wandering the streets of the city from May 1 will be slaughtered and served as meals at the Kumasi Central Prison.

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The directive comes in response to growing concerns over the increasing number of animals roaming freely in the Ashanti Regional capital, creating public health risks and disrupting daily life.

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“There is another thing I will want you to help me look at. If you have cattle and if they stray in the vicinity of KMA, be assured that from May 1, they will be killed and given to Kumasi Central Prison for food. Especially the route from the airport through to Manhyia Palace,” he cautioned.

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The mayor also lamented the poor image being projected to visitors due to animal waste along major city routes.

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“I cannot sit, for visitors come to Kumasi [and] from the airport to Manhyia, and all they see is faecal matter from cattle.”

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The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) has given cattle owners a 14-day deadline to comply, signaling a tough stance after years of failed efforts involving fines and impoundments.

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According to the National Road Safety Authority’s 2024 figures, Ghana recorded more than 10,000 road crashes resulting in nearly 2,000 deaths, with the Ashanti Region accounting for over 120 incidents linked to stray animals in Kumasi alone.

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Beyond the risk of accidents, the Ministry of Food and Agriculture estimates that Ghanaian farmers lose $2 million annually due to crop destruction caused by unrestrained livestock.

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Public health and sanitation are also at stake, as stray animals often block drains, litter public spaces, and contribute to deteriorating hygiene conditions in the city.

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