Residents of Aglokpovia, a community in the South Tongu District of Ghana’s Volta Region, are raising alarms over a nearby cattle ranch that poses significant health risks and disrupts daily life. The ranch, located within the residential area, has become a source of flies, foul smells, and potential zoonotic diseases like tuberculosis.
Agribusiness consultant Klutse Kudomor described the situation as dire, noting that the proximity of the ranch to homes is causing illnesses among residents. Community members report that flies from the ranch contaminate food, while the cattle frequently roam into homes at night.
Despite appeals from local leaders, including Assembly Member Victoria Dzekloe, the ranch owner has refused to relocate. Residents also face intimidation from herdsmen, some of whom allegedly carry weapons.
The district’s Environmental Health Unit has failed to follow through on initial efforts to address the issue, leaving the community frustrated and fearful of a larger health crisis. Aglokpovia’s residents are demanding urgent action, including the relocation of the ranch and stricter enforcement of public health regulations.
