Dog and Cat Meat Consumption Is Cultural Heritage & Birth Right – DOGMEA Global Prez, Apaak
Clement Abas Apaak, Member of Parliament (MP) for Builsa South and Deputy Minister of Education, has defended the consumption of dog and cat meat, describing it as a “birth right” and an integral part of cultural heritage and identity.
In a statement posted on his social media platforms, including Facebook and X (formerly Twitter), on Tuesday, February 24, Dr. Apaak, who also identifies himself as Global President of the Dog Meat Eaters Association of Ghana (DOGMEA), rejected calls for a total ban on the consumption of dog and cat meat by the Institute of Community Sustainability.
He argued that food and culture are inseparable, maintaining that the consumption of dog and cat meat has been passed down through generations as part of established moral and cultural traditions.
“Let the uninitiated be informed that food [dog and cat meat included] and culture are intrinsically linked. Food acts as a primary expression of cultural identity, heritage and social bonding,” he wrote.
Dr. Apaak dismissed concerns raised by the Institute, questioning the basis of arguments related to health and ethics.
He asked whether consumers of dog and cat meat had reported health challenges to the organization and suggested that health issues are not exclusive to those who consume the delicacy.
On ethical concerns, he maintained that cultural practices should be assessed within their own moral frameworks. According to him, consumers of dog and cat meat are guided by values and principles handed down by their ancestors.
“Our forefathers and fathers passed on the moral principles governing our behaviour, which includes our consumption of dog and cat meat, to us,” he stated.
He urged members of the association to disregard what he described as a “ridiculous call” for a ban and to continue consuming the delicacy without fear.
“We are proud of our heritage, we are proud of our culture. It is our birth right to consume dog and cat meat,” he added.
The Institute of Community Sustainability has not yet publicly responded to Dr. Apaak’s latest remarks.
