(3 minutes read)
Lesotho’s poultry producers are gearing up for a peaceful protest against the ban on chicken imports from South Africa. The recently enforced ban has not had its motivations or implications thoroughly detailed, leaving stakeholders in a state of uncertainty and frustration. The demonstration aims to voice their discontent and possibly compel authorities to relook this decision.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has urged the public to firmly reject the Legislative Instrument (LI) on the Export and Import (Restrictions on Importation of Selected Strategic Product) Regulations, 2023. This legislation compels importers of 22 restricted items, including poultry, to seek licences from a committee established by the Minister of Trade and Industry.
Dr. Joseph Obeng, President of the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), has voiced his opposition, stating that the government’s proposed Import Restriction Bill lacks data backing. Trade Minister, K.T. Hammond is expected to introduce a legislative instrument to Parliament this week, aiming to limit the importation of certain products into the country.
The production of chicken, the most consumed protein in the country, has experienced a significant decline in recent months. This downturn is attributed to skyrocketing poultry feed prices and raw materials due to global tension, primarily stemming from the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Falling demand in the face of commodity price hikes further exacerbates the issue.
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As the date for the peaceful protest draws closer, stakeholders and the general public await the government’s response. The demonstration’s outcome and potential impact on the import restrictions remain to be seen, setting the stage for a critical juncture in Lesotho’s poultry industry.
