Assessing the physical and psychological welfare implications of non-stunning slaughter practices in selected cattle abattoirs of Kampala

Year: 2026

Kasadha Owen
Makerere University, Uganda

Grant: HSA Student/Trainee Scholarship 2026

This project aims to evaluate the physical and psychological welfare impacts of non-stunning slaughter practices on cattle in selected abattoirs in Kampala, Uganda. The primary objective is to systematically assess how current slaughter methods where cattle are not stunned before throat cutting affect animal pain, fear, distress, and time to loss of consciousness. Indicators such as vocalization, head and neck movements, time to loss of corneal reflex, rhythmic breathing cessation, and injury patterns will be measured to objectively determine welfare compromise. Additionally, the study will assess compliance with existing animal welfare regulations and evaluate infrastructural and training gaps that may contribute to poor welfare outcomes.

The anticipated impact of the study is multifaceted. First, it will generate baseline scientific data on cattle welfare during non-stunning slaughter in Uganda, addressing a major knowledge gap. Second, the findings will inform evidence-based recommendations to improve restraint methods, operator training, facility design, and regulatory enforcement. By identifying critical control points where welfare compromise is greatest, the project hopes to guide practical, culturally sensitive interventions that reduce unnecessary animal suffering while respecting religious slaughter requirements. Ultimately, the results are expected to contribute to improved animal welfare standards, enhanced meat quality, better worker safety, and stronger alignment with international humane slaughter expectations. This research will therefore support both ethical responsibility and sustainable development within Uganda’s livestock and meat industry.