Survey on the Implementation, Regulation, and Certification of Halal Meat Slaughtering Principles at Selected Export Abattoirs in Ethiopia

Abstract

Halal certification plays a crucial role in assuring the quality, authenticity, and religious acceptability of meat products for Muslim consumers. However, its effectiveness in Ethiopia is challenged by limited awareness among producers, misuse of halal logos, and inconsistent adherence to halal slaughtering principles, which together have diminished consumer confidence. Therefore, this study examines the implementation, regulation, and certification of halal meat slaughtering practices in selected export abattoirs in Ethiopia. It was conducted between December 2023 and July 2024 in Modjo and Bishoftu, using a mixed-methods approach across seven randomly selected abattoirs. Data were collected through interviews, structured questionnaires, observations, and document analysis involving 36 stakeholders. The findings revealed full compliance (100%) with core halal requirements; however, notable gaps were observed in animal welfare (80%), top management training (64.3%), and the absence of both a Halal Quality Management System and Halal Assurance System (0%). As certification is overseen by the Oromia Islamic Affairs Supreme Council, the study recommends regulatory reforms, structured training, and system institutionalization to enhance compliance and export competitiveness.