King Urges Moroccans to Forego Eid al-Adha Sacrificial Rites Amid Livestock Shortage

King Mohammed VI has called on Moroccans to refrain from slaughtering sheep during this year’s Eid al-Adha, citing a severe decline in the country’s livestock population due to prolonged drought.

The North African nation has faced seven consecutive years of drought, leading to a 38% reduction in sheep herds over the past decade, according to official data. As a result, meat prices have surged, prompting Morocco to import 100,000 sheep from Australia in an effort to stabilise the market.

A Tradition Impacted by Climate Challenges

Eid al-Adha, scheduled to fall in June this year, is one of the most significant Islamic celebrations, commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command. Traditionally, Muslims mark the occasion by slaughtering sheep, goats, or other livestock, distributing the meat among family, neighbours, and the less fortunate.

However, Morocco’s worsening drought conditions have made it difficult to sustain sufficient livestock numbers. In a speech read by the Minister of Religious Affairs on national television, King Mohammed VI emphasised that performing the ritual amid these challenging circumstances would place a heavy burden on many Moroccans, particularly those on low incomes.

Echoes of History and Government Response

The King’s appeal mirrors that of his father, King Hassan II, who urged Moroccans to abstain from the Eid sacrifice in 1966, when the country faced a similarly severe drought.

Addressing the situation in a recent interview, Agriculture Minister Ahmed Bouari explained that securing water for essential sectors such as drinking supply and industry had taken priority over agriculture. Strict water rationing and irrigation regulations have further strained the country’s ability to sustain livestock farming.

In an effort to curb price hikes and ease the crisis, the Moroccan government has recently lifted import taxes and VAT on cattle, sheep, camels, and red meat, aiming to make livestock more accessible to consumers.

A Growing Concern in the Region

Morocco’s struggles reflect a broader issue of climate-induced agricultural distress across North Africa. Many nations in the region are grappling with water shortages, declining crop yields, and rising food prices, prompting governments to reconsider traditional practices in light of environmental and economic challenges.

As Eid approaches, Moroccans will need to find alternative ways to observe the sacred festival while navigating the realities of a changing climate and its impact on their traditions (BBC).