In an unprecedented move reflecting Morocco’s ongoing struggle with drought, King Mohammed VI has called on citizens to refrain from slaughtering sheep for this year’s Eid al-Adha. The appeal, delivered through a televised address by the Minister of Religious Affairs, comes as the nation grapples with a significant decline in its livestock population.
Eid al-Adha, set to be observed in June, is a deeply symbolic Islamic holiday commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command. Traditionally, Muslim families slaughter sheep or other livestock, distributing the meat among relatives and those in need. However, Morocco’s herds have dwindled by nearly 38% over the past decade, primarily due to seven years of persistent drought, pushing the country into a severe meat supply crisis.
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To counterbalance the shortages, the government has begun importing 100,000 sheep from Australia, but soaring meat prices remain a major concern, particularly for low-income families. “Carrying out the ritual sacrifice under these challenging conditions would place undue financial strain on large sections of our society,” the king stated in his address.
This isn’t the first time such an appeal has been made. In 1966, during a similarly harsh drought, King Hassan II, Mohammed VI’s father, urged Moroccans to forego the tradition for the sake of national stability.
The drought’s impact extends beyond livestock. Agriculture Minister Ahmed Bouari recently explained that securing water for essential sectors like drinking supply and industry has taken precedence, leading to stringent regulations on irrigation and widespread water rationing. In response, the government has lifted import taxes and VAT on cattle, sheep, camels, and red meat in an effort to stabilize market prices.
With Morocco facing an increasingly uncertain climate future, this year’s Eid al-Adha will serve as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between tradition and necessity.
