King Mohammed VI Urges Moroccans to Refrain from Eid Sheep Slaughter Amid Herd Decline

In light of severe droughts that have drastically reduced sheep herds by nearly 40% over the last decade, King Mohammed VI has advised Moroccans against the customary Eid al-Adha sheep slaughter, emphasizing the economic strain on poorer communities.

King Mohammed VI has officially urged Moroccans to refrain from the traditional Muslim practice of sheep slaughter during Eid al-Adha this year, due to a significant decline in the country's sheep herds and ongoing drought conditions. The livestock shortage is attributed to seven years of relentless drought that has severely impacted agricultural resources.

Eid al-Adha, which commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son, is a time when Muslims typically slaughter sheep or other animals, sharing the meat with family and those in need. However, Morocco is facing an acute shortage of sheep, with government figures indicating a decline of almost 40% in the national herd over the past ten years.

In a recorded statement delivered by the Minister of Religious Affairs on national television, King Mohammed VI highlighted the potential harm this rite could inflict on economically vulnerable populations. “Performing the rite under these difficult circumstances will cause significant harm to large segments of our people, especially those with limited income,” he remarked.

In response to the crisis, the government has taken steps to stabilize meat prices by lifting import taxes and VAT on livestock and meat products. Furthermore, the country plans to import around 100,000 sheep from Australia to mitigate shortages.

Agriculture Minister Ahmed Bouari commented on the challenges faced by the agricultural sector, stating that prioritizing water supplies for industries and essential services has left farmers struggling to access irrigation. This struggle is compounded by strict regulations and the necessity of water rationing in many areas.

Historically, previous similar appeals were made by King Hassan II during droughts in the 1960s, illustrating the persistent risk that these environmental factors pose to traditional practices and livelihoods in Morocco.