Introduction:
Most sheep that are to be slaughtered for the Tobaski
feast are bought in Abuko which is just off the main
road. This is often a very stressful time for a lot
of men as they often feel duty bound to buy a big sheep
even if they have to borrow money to buy it.
Prices:
The cost of a sheep can typically be three to four times
a manual worker's monthly salary. It is often advisable
to buy your sheep at least 1 week before Tobaski as
prices tend to start to rise as you get nearer the Eid
Al Adha feast day. For a decent sized sheep expect to
pay between $350 to $400 per animal though prices can
be much higher with rams particularly sought after.
If you purchase a sheep early do remember that you have
to feed them "ngon" (feed) which can cost
around $5 per sack full.
Goats and Sheep:
Free to roam the street, until sundown when they all
return to their respective compounds. Don’t be startled
by their loud baas, which can be belch-like. Both animals
are kept for Tabaski, a major Muslim holiday that requires
sacrifice of these bleating creatures.
Contacts:
• Gambia Livestock Dealer's Association
Abuko
T el. no: 4394625
• Department of Livestock
Services, Abuko
Tel no: 4472820 / 4472118 |
