27 Cows Slaughtered in Kenema as UAE Charities Mark Eid al-Adha With Major Donation

In fulfillment of Islamic religious obligations and in line with the spirit of charity during Eid al-Adha, two prominent humanitarian organizations have extended support to Muslim communities in Kenema through a large-scale meat distribution exercise following the ritual slaughtering of livestock.

Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the two major Islamic celebrations observed by Muslims worldwide. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah, before Allah provided a ram in place of the sacrifice. The occasion is traditionally marked by special prayers, the ritual slaughtering of animals (Qurbani), and the distribution of meat to family members, neighbors, and those in need.

As part of this year’s global celebration, the Emirates Red Crescent, also known as the UAE Red Crescent, and Sharjah Charity International, jointly slaughtered 27 cows in Kenema, Eastern Sierra Leone, as part of their humanitarian outreach to support vulnerable communities.

The meat distribution exercise benefited thousands of residents in Kenema and surrounding areas, bringing together both Muslim and non-Muslim beneficiaries after Eid prayers held at various mosques, including the Masjid Al-Imaanu, which hosted part of the celebrations.

According to the organizers and local coordinators, the initiative is aimed at strengthening community bonds, supporting food security, and extending charitable assistance to families in need during the festive period. The slaughter of 27 cows represents a significant contribution, translating into thousands of meals distributed across households.

The Emirates Red Crescent, established in 1983 in Abu Dhabi, serves as the UAE’s official humanitarian arm affiliated with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). The organization is widely involved in emergency relief, disaster response, orphan support, and community development programs globally.

Similarly, Sharjah Charity International, established in 1989 under an Amiri Decree issued by the Ruler of Sharjah, Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, focuses on humanitarian aid including support for poor families, widows, orphans, education, healthcare services, and infrastructure development such as schools, mosques, and health centres.

The joint intervention in Kenema underscores the shared commitment of both organizations to humanitarian service and reflects the broader Islamic principle of charity and compassion during Eid al-Adha celebrations.