ACCRA, GHANA — The Institute of Community Sustainability (ICS) has taken a significant step in Ghana’s animal advocacy movement by seeking legal redress at the Supreme Court to compel the enforcement of existing laws prohibiting the slaughter and consumption of dogs and cats.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, the organization announced that it is asking the country’s highest court to enforce Section 303 of the Criminal Offences Act (Act 29), as amended by the Criminal Code (Amendment) Act, 1998 (Act 554). According to ICS, the law criminalizes the unlawful slaughter and consumption of dogs and cats, and the organization believes stronger enforcement is necessary..
A Call for Stronger Legal Enforcement
Rather than seeking the introduction of new legislation, ICS argues that Ghana already has legal provisions in place and that the focus should now be on ensuring those laws are effectively enforced. The organization says it remains concerned by what it describes as the continued slaughter of dogs and cats for human consumption in some parts of the country.
According to ICS, companion animals deserve legal protection not only because of their close relationship with humans but also because of their role in households and communities.
“Dogs and cats have proven to be loyal companions and vital members of our households. The widespread theft and cruel slaughter of these animals must end. We are calling on the highest court of the land to uphold the law and protect both our animals and our public health,”
said Eric Jerry Aidoo, Executive Director of the Institute of Community Sustainability, popularly known as Chairman Jerry.
Animal Welfare and Public Health
Beyond animal welfare concerns, ICS argues that the issue also has important public health implications.
It will be measured by what happens afterwards. The organization warns that the unregulated slaughter and handling of dogs and cats could increase the risk of zoonotic diseases, including rabies, particularly where animals are processed outside regulated veterinary and food safety systems.
These are the outcomes that could determine whether the momentum created in Nairobi and Accra becomes something lasting. ICS further notes that, unlike livestock such as cattle, goats, sheep, poultry and fish, Ghana has no regulated commercial farms for breeding dogs or cats for food.
As a result, the organization says there are concerns about where many of the animals entering the trade originate, including the possibility of theft and illegal trafficking.
A Growing Conversation
The legal action comes at a time when discussions around animal advocacy are gaining momentum across Africa. Across the continent, advocates are increasingly calling for stronger protections for companion animals while also encouraging conversations about animal welfare, responsible ownership and public health.
Supporters of the legal action argue that enforcing existing laws would strengthen animal protection and improve public health safeguards. Others believe the issue requires broader public dialogue, particularly where cultural practices and food traditions intersect with evolving views on companion animals.
What Happens Next?
The Supreme Court’s decision could have important implications for the enforcement of Ghana’s existing animal protection laws and may influence future discussions on companion animal welfare in the country.
At the time of publication, the Court had not yet issued a ruling on the matter. Vegan Africa News will continue to follow the case and provide updates as more information becomes available.