King Mohammed VI of Morroco has asked Moroccans to avoid slaughtering sheep for Eid al-Adha this year. The request comes as Morocco faces a severe livestock shortage due to a six-year drought. The Minister of Islamic Affairs, Ahmed Toufiq, delivered the message on state-run television.
The king, who is also the country’s highest religious authority, cited economic hardship and climate challenges. He warned that performing the sacrifice in these conditions would harm many people, especially those with low incomes.
Drought and Inflation Drive Sheep Prices Up
Morocco has lost nearly a third of its cattle and sheep population since 2016. The ongoing drought has made animal feed scarce, pushing livestock prices to record highs. Inflation has further reduced the purchasing power of families, making it difficult for many to afford a sheep.
Eid al-Adha is one of the most important Islamic holidays. Many families take out loans just to buy livestock for the sacrifice. In Morocco, the price of a single sheep can exceed a household’s monthly income. The country’s minimum wage is 3,000 dirhams (£240), making it impossible for many to participate in the tradition.
A recent survey by the Moroccan Center for Citizenship revealed that 55% of families struggled to afford the costs of Eid sacrifices. The financial burden extends beyond the livestock itself, as families must also buy utensils and other supplies.
Government Attempts to Stabilize Prices
To ease the crisis, the Moroccan government has taken several measures. In its 2025 budget, it suspended import duties and a value-added tax on cattle and sheep. This move aims to stabilize domestic prices and support struggling households.
Last month, authorities announced a deal to import up to 100,000 sheep from Australia. Morocco has previously imported cattle from Brazil and Uruguay to counter the effects of drought. Despite these efforts, local supply remains low, and prices continue to soar.
Historical Precedents for the Ban
This is the first time in 29 years that Morocco has asked citizens to forgo animal sacrifice for Eid. King Hassan II, the father of Mohammed VI, made similar requests three times during his reign. Previous bans occurred during wartime, economic crises, and severe droughts.
The decision reflects the growing impact of climate change on Morocco’s agricultural sector. With red meat consumption among the highest in Africa, the country faces tough choices to protect its livestock industry.
Public Reactions and Economic Concerns
The ban has sparked mixed reactions among Moroccans. Some support the decision, recognizing the economic and environmental challenges. Others believe it disrupts religious and cultural traditions.
Activist groups and trade unions have criticized the government’s handling of inflation. Many argue that current measures are not enough to address the rising cost of living. Protests over food prices have increased in recent months, adding pressure on authorities.
As Morocco prepares for Eid in June, the debate over the sacrifice ban continues. The country faces a difficult balancing act between tradition, economic stability, and climate realities.
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