By Eyasu Zekarias

Traders in Ethiopian cities, particularly in Addis Ababa, have voiced their worries to Capital about a significant decline in their daily market due to the circulation of false information regarding the availability of donkey meat for consumption. They expressed concerns that if the situation persists, it may force them to exit the market.

One trader explained, “We are now facing repeated inquiries from consumers claiming that the antelope bull they purchased for up to 80,000 birr is actually donkey meat.” He further added, “This has caused disputes among customers.”

When asked about the financial impact, Yohannes and Bekeret Butchery stated, “Aside from the income aspect, legally slaughtered ox meat, which used to be a popular choice, is losing its market value due to these false claims.”

Business owners, considering the situation as a serious matter, reported a loss of 10 to 15 percent of their income. They condemned the act, stating that it is not only offensive from a religious and personal standpoint but also goes against the cultural norms of the community.

According to the traders who spoke with Capital, the price of meat per kilogram has dropped from over 750 birr to 500 birr. They attributed this decline to the rapid spread of inaccurate information through social media platforms.

It has been reported that the Addis Ababa Regulation Enforcement Authority is actively working to address the issue of illegal slaughtering in the city. They have announced that individuals involved in or facilitating illegal slaughtering will face fines of up to 15,000 birr.

The population of donkeys in the continent is also said to be declining due to the high demand for their skins, resulting in hundreds of thousands of donkeys being slaughtered and primarily exported from African countries. The demand for donkey skins, particularly from China, stems from their use in producing gelatin known as “Ejiao,” which is utilized in Chinese traditional medicine and cosmetics.