MPs advocate for restriction of animal slaughtering to Muslims urging implementation of Halal policy

UGANDA – A group of Members of Parliament is urging the government to fast-track the implementation of regulations surrounding the Islamic Halal policy, aiming to exclusively designate the slaughtering of animals to Muslims.

This proposed move is envisioned to allow Uganda to access the highly profitable Arab-Islamic beef market, potentially boosting foreign exchange earnings.

The call for urgency follows a revelation by Harriet Ntabazi, the Minister of State for Trade, during a session with Parliament’s Trade Committee.

Ntabazi emphasized that Uganda’s lack of regulations mandating halal certificates for those involved in the production and processing of meat is causing significant financial losses, particularly in Arab countries.

Ntabazi pinpointed Qatar as a prime example, explaining that while Uganda possesses an ample supply of beef, goat’s meat, and mutton, the absence of halal certificates obstructs export opportunities.

Live animals cannot be exported, and countries like Qatar demand processed meat that adheres to halal standards. To circumvent this, Uganda currently transports its livestock to Kenya for slaughter, as Kenya possesses the requisite halal certification.

Bunyole West MP, Yusuf Mutembuli, highlighted that despite expectations from Islamic nations for Uganda to legislate that only Muslims can perform animal slaughtering, the country currently relies on customs, culture, and Islamic principles.

Mutembuli emphasized that the lack of a specific halal law raises doubts among Islamic nations about the authenticity of Ugandan meat products.

Mutembuli urged for an open dialogue on the implementation of a halal policy in Uganda, particularly emphasizing the commercial benefits it could bring to the country.

He stressed the necessity of a law restricting animal slaughtering to Muslims, citing it as crucial for securing the confidence of Islamic countries in the safety and authenticity of Ugandan meat.

Abed Bwanika, Kimanya Kabonera Division MP, added that the global beef market, particularly in the Muslim world, demands adherence to halal standards.

He advocated for the government to establish regulations within the law that specifically address halal production and processing.

Bwanika highlighted the immense potential of the Arab world as a market, encompassing Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, and others.

He noted the high quality of Ugandan meat, which is favored for its taste, aroma, and the harmonious blend of fat and meat.

The implementation of halal regulations, according to Bwanika, is crucial for Uganda to tap into this lucrative market and meet the demand for high-quality halal-certified meat.

Liked this article? Subscribe to Food Business Africa News, our regular email newsletters with the latest news insights from Africa and the World’s food and agro industry. SUBSCRIBE HERE