The Institute of Community Sustainability (ICS) has announced a temporary suspension of its nationwide sensitisation campaign against the consumption of dog and cat meat following a violent attack on its Executive Director, Eric Jerry Aidoo.

According to a report by 3news.com, the incident occurred in Ghana’s Northern Region while Mr. Aidoo was undertaking advocacy activities as part of the organisation’s ongoing outreach programme. The attack, described by ICS as targeted and severe, has raised concerns about the safety of campaign staff operating in the field.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, the organisation indicated that the decision to pause the tour was taken as a precautionary measure to safeguard its team and reassess its security arrangements. “While we are relieved that Chairman Jerry is safe, the severity of this targeted violence necessitates a pause to ensure the safety of our team and to review our security protocols,” the statement said.

ICS emphasised that the suspension is temporary and does not represent a cancellation of its campaign. The group reaffirmed its commitment to resuming activities once it is confident that adequate safety measures are in place for its staff and volunteers.

“We want to state clearly that the tour is not cancelled. We have only put our activities on hold,” the statement noted. “We will return to the road very soon to continue advocating for the protection of dogs and cats, which serve as loyal companions and provide vital security for households across the country.”

The organisation has been at the forefront of advocacy efforts to end the consumption of dogs and cats in Ghana, arguing that these animals should be regarded as companions rather than livestock. It maintains that dogs and cats play significant roles in society, offering emotional support and companionship, particularly to children and the elderly, while also serving as an important line of security in many homes.

“Cats and dogs are family, not food,” ICS stressed, adding that it will not be intimidated into abandoning its mission. The group says the campaign forms part of its broader efforts to promote animal welfare and encourage more humane treatment of animals nationwide.

Despite the setback, ICS remains resolute in its advocacy, signaling its intention to continue engaging communities and stakeholders on the issue once the suspension is lifted.

Source: 3news.com