Health officials and meat industry leaders are warning about a growing public health threat from contaminated meat sold in Kampala’s informal markets.

At the launch of a new hygienic butchery project by Ranchers Finest and Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), experts raised concerns about unsafe meat handling and illegal practices.

Colin Muyanja, CEO of Ranchers Finest, said many vendors use dangerous chemicals like formalin, a preservative for dead bodies,to make meat look fresh. He also pointed out that meat is often stored without refrigeration and exposed to flies, leading to bacteria such as Salmonella.

“This is putting people at serious risk, especially children. Repeated exposure can cause long-term illness and even cancer,” Muyanja warned.

KCCA confirmed that informal markets often operate without proper inspection, worsening the threat.

“Kampala’s meat supply has long been unsafe. It’s time to act,” said Sheila Birungi Gandi, KCCA Director for Gender and Community Services.

To help fix the problem, Ranchers Finest is opening clean, well-equipped butcheries called Beta Butchers. They feature cold storage, proper hygiene, and pre-packed meat. So far, over 20 branches are open, with 50 more planned.

KCCA also promises tougher rules and better enforcement.

“This is about saving lives,” Muyanja said. “Flies don’t mean freshness,they mean danger.”

The project also includes public education and job opportunities for women and youth in food handling.

KCCA urges consumers to choose safety over price: “Cheap meat that risks your health is not worth it.”