As Eid al-Adha dawns across Ghana, the air is filled with both spiritual anticipation and quiet relief. Families prepare for morning prayers, white garments are neatly pressed, and homes are abuzz with a renewed sense of purpose. This year’s celebration is not only a religious milestone — it is a moment of economic ease for many.
The strengthening of the Ghanaian cedi in recent months has softened livestock prices, making the sacred ritual of sacrifice more accessible to a broader segment of the Muslim community. For many who have previously struggled with the financial burden of the holiday, this change is deeply meaningful.
Devotion Without the Usual Financial Weight
Eid al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, honours Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering obedience to God. Muslims worldwide mark the occasion by sacrificing livestock — a cow, ram, or goat — and sharing the meat with family, friends, and those in need. It’s a tradition rooted in charity, faith, and unity.
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In Ghana, this year’s celebration is especially significant. Thanks to the cedi’s appreciation, prices of livestock — particularly imported ones — have declined. For families long burdened by high costs, the financial barrier to participating in this sacred act has eased.
Market Trends Reflect Cedi’s Strength
At major livestock markets such as Turaku in Kpone Katamanso and trading hubs in Tamale, prices have noticeably dipped. According to traders and industry leaders, the cedi’s performance against regional currencies, especially the CFA, has made imports from neighbouring countries more affordable.
Alhaji Moro Akakade, Chairman of the Ghana National Livestock Breeders and Traders Association, noted that cows previously selling for GH¢30,000 are now priced around GH¢25,000. Rams, once priced at GH¢2,000, are available for GH¢1,500.
In Tamale, bulls now range from GH¢7,000 to GH¢20,000 — down from last year’s GH¢10,000 to GH¢30,000 — while rams sell between GH¢1,000 and GH¢7,000, offering much-needed relief to consumers ahead of the festival.
A Blessing for Some, a Blow for Others
While buyers rejoice, not all stakeholders are equally upbeat. Livestock importers like Osman Zakaria, who source animals from Burkina Faso, say the stronger cedi has cut into profit margins. Zakaria told Daily Graphic that each animal now brings in GH¢200 to GH¢350 less than expected.
“We bought the animals expecting profit,” he said, “but with these price drops, we’re barely breaking even. If this continues, many of us may reconsider staying in this trade.”
Still, many sellers remain optimistic that last-minute demand will boost sales and balance the books.
Beyond Economics: A Return to Spiritual Roots
Amid price charts and profit concerns, religious leaders are reminding the faithful of what truly matters. Assistant Imam Majid Hassan emphasized that Eid is not about status or wealth, but sincerity and submission to God.
“The sacrifice isn’t for show,” he said. “It’s the devotion in your heart that counts.”
His message resonates nationwide. From Accra to Tamale, families are embracing the deeper meaning of Eid — a day of obedience, gratitude, and community sharing.
A Call for Government Support
The current price relief has spotlighted the vital role of Ghana’s livestock sector — not just during religious festivals, but as a pillar of trade, employment, and culture. Industry leaders like Alhaji Akakade are urging the government to invest in infrastructure and create policies that sustain and grow this critical industry.
A More Inclusive Eid
As evening falls and families gather around shared meals, the sounds of laughter, prayer, and generosity echo across the country. Thanks to a favourable economic moment, more Ghanaians are able to honour the call to sacrifice, embodying the very essence of Eid al-Adha.
Today, the cedi did more than hold its value — it helped open doors to deeper faith, stronger community bonds, and wider participation in a cherished tradition.
Last Updated on June 10, 2025 by
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Samuel Kwame Boadu is a Ghanaian media entrepreneur and storyteller with a passion for amplifying urban voices and uncovering everyday truths. He is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Accra Street Journal, a dynamic digital platform dedicated to capturing the pulse of Ghana’s capital—its people, culture, challenges, business, sports and innovations.
