By Murtala Issah
Animal activists in the Northern Region are urging motorists to show compassion and be mindful of animals whilst using the road. The activists say, too many animals are being killed on the road whilst others are suffering, such as pets, from abuse from their owners indicating the lack of medical care and proper feeding.
The activists took to the streets of Tamale to draw attention to the maltreatment of animals in the region and Ghana as a whole. The march forms part of activities marking the month of National Animal Safety and Protection Month.
The event, organised by the West African Center for the Protection of Animal Welfare, saw more than hundred residents take part in the march.
After the route march, various speakers took turns addressing the crowd. According to the Northern Regional Directorate of the National Road Safety Authority, too many animals are being knocked down by motorists on the streets of the region.
According to the Regional Director of the Authority, Muhammed Abdul Samad, it is necessary to be mindful of these animals whilst using the road to avoid harming them.
“By protecting these animals, you are protecting yourself. Remember, they have no intellect like you,” he stressed.
The event, organised by the West Africa Center for the Protection of Animal Welfare, saw the activists march from the Alhaji Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium to the Abedi Pele Round About to raise awareness about the plight of animals in the region.
The organisers explained that the month of October is dedicated to the protection of animal welfare and that they were using the march to draw attention to the plight of animals in the region. Coincidentally, a motorist knocked down a dog and sped off whilst the march was ongoing, prompting a veterinary officer among the activists to treat the animal.
The Founder of the West Africa Center for the Protection of Animal Welfare, Abdul Rahman Safian, appealed to motor riders and drivers on the street, particularly in Tamale, to show compassion to animals.
“We encourage you to treat your animals humanely, including those you slaughter for food. We will continue to sensitise residents to ensure that, animal rights are respected,” he stated.