ZANZIBAR’S chief veterinary officer, Dr Ali Zahran Moh’d, has announced that the government will enforce strict controls on animal slaughter ahead of Eid al-Adha to prevent unregulated practices and ensure food safety for consumers.

The festival, expected to be celebrated on June 7, this year, marks the culmination of the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca and is traditionally observed by Muslims through the ritual slaughter of animals such as cattle, camels, sheep, or goats.

Dr Zahran said the Livestock Department is conducting inspections to monitor animal health and prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases, especially with the rising influx of livestock—mainly cattle, goats, and sheep—entering Zanzibar in preparation for the festival.

Speaking from his office in Maruhubi, he emphasised that only certified slaughter houses will be permitted to operate during Eid. The department will issue official permits and provide professional oversight to ensure humane and hygienic practices are followed.

"We are working to prevent unregulated slaughtering, which can pose serious health risks. Our teams will oversee veterinary checks, vaccination services, and issue health clearance certificates for all animals meant for slaughter," he said.

The government will also work closely with the Zanzibar Food and Drug Agency (ZFDA) to ensure that all animals entering the market meet safety and quality standards for human consumption.

However, Dr Zahran raised concerns over the smuggling of animals through unofficial ports, which undermine disease control efforts. These animals often bypass veterinary checks, increasing the risk of spreading livestock-borne illnesses.

To address this, the government will intensify public education campaigns on the importance of obtaining proper permits and adhering to approved slaughter timelines. This includes medically recommended holding periods to ensure animals are fit for human consumption.

“There is a concerning trend of unsupervised slaughtering, which we are determined to curbing. Animals must be slaughtered at designated facilities under veterinary supervision,” he said.

Dr Zahran added that any imported meat intended for Eid offerings must be accompanied by veterinary certificates and official seals confirming it is safe for human consumption.

He urged all individuals and organisations involved in slaughtering activities to comply with regulations set by the Livestock Development, noting that doing so is essential to protect public health and uphold national food safety standards.