Warning: Graphic Pictures (Cow Slaughtering)

So for the family function we had the opportunity to take part in a cow slaughtering. It is a tradition that holds true today. The whole neighborhood comes together to help butcher the cow and prepare it for the party. It was an intense experience that we really appreciated getting to be part of. The most intense part however was the actually killing. The men arrived with the cow in the back of this tiny pick-up and directly got out, pulled out their pistol and shot the cow in the head. It took fighting every instinct I had not to run when he pulled out the gun. I've never shot a gun, nor have I seen one shot so that in itself was a bit boggling! It was a very nice way for the cow to die however and I'm really grateful for that! (traditionally they stab it in the heart and let it walk around crying and moaning until it bleeds out.) This was was fast and painless for the cow. They they proceeded to pull the cow out of the truck and cut off its head (to let all the blood drain.) Then the real work started. We had to skin the cow and remove its innards, then cut each piece of meat. My grandfather would have been proud of me that day (for those of you who don't know he was a butcher for 30 years.) It was a really humbling experience. Since arriving in Africa it has become really important for me to understand where my food comes from. If i can eat the animal I should have the guts to kill it. Overall it was a great experience and good practice for the next two years. I tried to pick pictures that explain the process but not the goriest ones! Enjoy!