Residents of Makeni Town Council are demanding the relocation of the town’s abattoir due to its deteriorating condition and the unbearable stench it emits.
The area surrounding the abattoir is plagued by a foul smell from animal blood and waste discharged into the open, raising serious health concerns.
The Makeni abattoir, built by the then Makeni Town Council with funds from DFID to address hygiene concerns in the meat trade, has become the subject of public outcry. Over the years, the facility has deteriorated, with reports of uncertified animals being slaughtered across the city, further complicating hygiene issues.
Located in a residential area, the neglected abattoir has subjected nearby residents to constant offensive odors. Calls for intervention by the council have reportedly fallen on deaf ears.
Thomas Conteh, a resident living near the slaughterhouse, emphasized the urgent need for relocation, citing health concerns. “We have to wear masks throughout the day because of the smell. It’s not good for our health and poses a serious health hazard,” he stressed.
A nearby landlord also expressed frustration, stating that he has lost several tenants since the beginning of the year due to the unbearable stench from the abattoir.
Residents and vendors in the area, who are directly affected by the heavy odor, are often forced to close their businesses due to the unsanitary conditions.
They are urging the authorities to relocate the abattoir to a more suitable area to protect them from potential disease outbreaks and improve overall hygiene standards.