KABUL, Afghanistan — On the eve of Eid al-Adha, the livestock market in Kabul is bustling, with prices surging amid the city’s deteriorating economic conditions. Many residents are finding it difficult to afford the animals required for the traditional act of sacrifice.
The price hike comes as the World Health Organization in Afghanistan has warned of an increasing incidence of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF), a disease that spreads to humans through contact with animal blood. A woman in Paktia province recently succumbed to the disease, underscoring the health risks.
The streets and avenues of Kabul are now crowded with livestock, mainly calves and sheep, as the city prepares for Eid. Health officials are urging residents to take precautions. “People should observe all precautions recommended by the Public Health Ministry during the slaughtering,” said Dr. Mirani Baratzai.
The Taliban-run Ministry of Public Health has reported a 38 percent increase in Congo fever cases this year. Despite the health concerns, the religious ritual of sacrificing halal livestock during Eid al-Adha continues to be observed by Muslims worldwide.
In a related announcement, the Taliban has declared Sunday as Arafat Day and Monday as the first day of Eid al-Adha.
