King Mohammed VI has requested Moroccan citizens to forgo the annual sheep sacrifice during Eid Al Adha due to a severe decline in livestock linked to ongoing drought. Official data indicates a 38% reduction in sheep numbers, resulting in higher meat prices and increased imports. The king’s message emphasized the importance of considering the economic struggles faced by many citizens amidst these challenges.
King Mohammed VI of Morocco has urged citizens to refrain from the traditional sheep sacrifice during Eid Al Adha this year. This appeal comes as the nation faces a significant decrease in livestock numbers, attributed to prolonged drought conditions impacting the availability of grazing pastures. Official statistics reveal a 38% decline in the national herd over the past year, exacerbated by seven consecutive years of drought.
The Ministry of Agriculture has reported a 53% reduction in rainfall in 2025 compared to the previous three-decade average, severely limiting livestock feed resources. In light of these difficulties, King Mohammed VI addressed the nation via the minister of religious affairs, acknowledging the essential nature of Eid while emphasizing the pressing climatic and economic challenges.
He stated, “Our commitment to enabling you to fulfil this religious rite under the best conditions is accompanied by the duty to consider the climatic and economic challenges facing our country.” The king further cautioned that performing the sacrificial rite under current circumstances could adversely affect vulnerable segments of the population, especially those with limited financial means.
This decline in livestock has led to increased meat prices within Morocco, necessitating greater imports to meet local demand. To address this, the government has recently signed an agreement to import up to 100,000 sheep from Australia to supplement local supply. Eid Al Adha traditionally commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son, symbolizing obedience and faith in God.
In conclusion, King Mohammed VI’s call for citizens to abstain from the traditional sheep sacrifice during Eid Al Adha is a response to the significant decline in Morocco’s livestock caused by prolonged drought. His emphasis on the economic and climatic challenges reflects a compassionate approach considering the well-being of financially vulnerable citizens. The situation necessitates higher meat imports, highlighting the ongoing repercussions of environmental changes on public rituals.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
