MICHAEL N
Pork joint owners in Ntungamo Municipality have raised concerns over the reduced number of pigs being slaughtered since the municipality introduced a designated pig slaughtering place in town.
Ntungamo Municipality, one month ago, implemented a law requiring pigs to be slaughtered in a central location before being taken to pork joints for sale. Pork joint owners have expressed concerns that most of the pigs delivered to them now come from distant areas, as the municipality does not have enough local pig keepers. Speaking to Frank Tumusiime and Jackline Atukwase, owners of pork joints in Ntungamo Municipality, they explained that most pigs are already slaughtered before reaching their businesses, and since the law was amended, the number of pigs slaughtered daily has significantly reduced.
Pork joint owners further noted that previously, veterinary doctors would inspect and stamp the pork after delivery, ensuring it was safe for cooking. Now, due to the law, they incur additional transportation costs of first taking pigs to the slaughtering place and then bringing them back to their pork joints, reducing their potential profits. They have urged Ntungamo Municipality authorities to consider allowing pig butchers within the town, similar to beef butchers, to make pork more accessible for customers who prefer to cook at home.
Some pig keepers around town welcomed the introduction of the centralized slaughtering place, citing that it will reduce pig theft. Previously, some people would steal pigs, slaughter them, and sell the meat, making it difficult to track stolen animals. Pig keepers also revealed that, under the new law, anyone bringing a pig for slaughter must provide clear documentation from the LC1 chairperson (Ekibari) indicating the origin of the pig and the seller.
Some pork customers also appreciated the move, saying it will help reduce the high cost of pork. They noted that having butchers within the town ensures that the pork sold is safe and of good quality, rather than coming from pigs that may have died naturally.
Arnold Ayembazibwe, Ntungamo Municipality Agricultural Officer, explained that the main reason for introducing centralized pig slaughtering was to minimize the risk of consuming pork from pigs that die naturally, which could pose health risks. Arnold emphasized that untreated pork could negatively affect consumers’ health. He explained that the new law also helps reduce pig theft, as each pig must be verified with proper documentation, the owner’s confirmation, and the LC1 chairperson’s approval. Arnold urged the public and pork joint owners to comply with the new law, stressing that it is designed to protect both customer health and local businesses.
