Eid Al-Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, is a significant religious celebration observed by Muslims around the world. In anticipation of the upcoming Eid Al-Adha, the Governor of Giza in Egypt, Major General Ahmed Rashid, has announced important guidelines to ensure the proper and responsible slaughter of animals. With the aim of preserving the environment, public health, and cleanliness, the Giza Governorate is directing its residents towards authorized abattoirs instead of engaging in street slaughters. These measures come as part of an ongoing effort to enhance the quality and safety of food offered to citizens during this religious holiday.
Banning Street Slaughters
To promote a more organized and regulated Eid Al-Adha celebration, the Governor of Giza has announced a ban on street slaughters. Individuals found engaging in this practice will be subject to a fine of EGP 3,000 (USD 97). While it remains uncertain if harsher punishments will be imposed, previous years have seen other governorates threatening imprisonment for violations of these regulations.
Read More: Muslim Mayor prevented from attending Eid-ul-fitr celebration at the White House
Alternative Methods
In an official Facebook announcement, the Giza Governorate has provided its 9.5 million residents with an alternative to street slaughters. Thirty-one abattoirs will be made available free of charge to residents, ensuring a controlled and safe environment for animal sacrifices. However, residents are expected to bring their own butchers to perform the slaughtering. To guarantee the quality and safety of the meat, government-appointed veterinarians will be present at these abattoirs to inspect the animals and ensure their sterility.
Benefits of Abattoirs
The initiative to encourage citizens to slaughter sacrificial animals in authorized abattoirs offers numerous advantages. Firstly, it promotes environmental preservation by minimizing the unregulated disposal of animal waste associated with street slaughters. Secondly, it prioritizes public health by ensuring that the meat consumed during Eid Al-Adha meets proper safety and hygiene standards. Lastly, the shift towards abattoirs promotes cleanliness and prevents the unsightly and unhygienic practices that sometimes accompany street slaughters.
Supervisory Campaigns
In preparation for the religious holiday, the Giza Governorate plans to intensify supervisory campaigns on butcher shops, restaurants, and markets. These campaigns aim to enforce health regulations and guarantee the quality and safety of the food available to citizens. By holding establishments accountable, the government ensures that the public can enjoy the Eid festivities without compromising their well-being.
Preserving Traditions
Eid Al-Adha holds great significance for Muslims, commemorating Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of devotion to God. Traditionally, Muslims sacrifice animals such as sheep, cows, goats, or camels during this time. While many individuals choose to have their animals slaughtered by professionals, some still prefer to perform the sacrifices themselves. However, the Giza Governorate’s guidelines aim to strike a balance between preserving religious traditions and promoting responsible and sustainable practices.
Read More: Will there be relief from loadshedding on Eid ul Adha?
As Eid Al-Adha approaches, Egypt’s Governor of Giza has taken proactive measures to ensure a safe, organized, and environmentally friendly celebration. By directing residents to authorized abattoirs and banning street slaughters, the government aims to preserve public health, promote cleanliness, and protect the environment. These guidelines, coupled with intensified supervisory campaigns, will help guarantee the quality and safety of food during this important religious holiday. As Egyptians prepare for Eid Al-Adha, they can now embrace the festivities with the knowledge that their traditions are being upheld responsibly and in harmony with the principles of public welfare.