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Drought-hit Morocco asks citizens not to slaughter sheep on Eid al-Adha

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King Asks Moroccans to Abstain from Slaughtering Sheep on Eid al-Adha Due to Drought

The King of Morocco, Mohammed VI, has asked Moroccans to abstain from performing the rite of slaughtering sheep on Eid al-Adha this year due to a significant decline in the country’s herd following years of drought.

Eid al-Adha: A Time for Reflection and Charity

Eid al-Adha, which is set to take place in June, commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim, or Abraham, to sacrifice his son on God’s command. Muslims mark the event by slaughtering sheep or goats, sharing the meat among family and donating to the poor.

A Drought-Stricken Country

Morocco’s cattle and sheep herds have decreased by 38% in 2025 since the last census nine years ago, due to consecutive droughts, according to official figures. This decline has had a significant impact on the country’s economy and has led to higher prices in the local market and increased imports of live cattle, sheep, and red meat.

A Call for Sacrifice and Sacrificing

In a letter read on his behalf by religious affairs minister Ahmed Taoufiq on state TV Al Oula, the King said, "Our commitment to enabling you to fulfill this religious rite under the best conditions is accompanied by the duty to consider the climatic and economic challenges facing our country, which have led to a significant decline in livestock numbers." He also stated that performing the rite "under these difficult circumstances will cause significant harm to large segments of our people, especially those with limited income."

A Solution to the Crisis

To mitigate the effects of the crisis, the country has recently signed a deal to import up to 100,000 sheep from Australia. Additionally, the government has suspended import duties and value-added tax on cattle, sheep, camels, and red meat to keep prices stable in the domestic market.

A New Era of Cooperation and Sacrifice

The King’s call for Moroccans to abstain from slaughtering sheep on Eid al-Adha this year is a testament to his commitment to finding a solution to the country’s economic and climatic challenges. As the country navigates this difficult period, it is clear that the well-being of its people is paramount, and that the King is willing to make sacrifices to ensure their prosperity.

Conclusion

In the face of adversity, the King of Morocco has shown his willingness to make difficult decisions to ensure the well-being of his people. As the country navigates this challenging period, it is clear that the King’s commitment to his people and his country is unwavering.

FAQs

  • Why is the King asking Moroccans to abstain from slaughtering sheep on Eid al-Adha?
    The King is asking Moroccans to abstain from slaughtering sheep on Eid al-Adha due to a significant decline in the country’s herd following years of drought.
  • What is the current state of Morocco’s cattle and sheep herds?
    Morocco’s cattle and sheep herds have decreased by 38% in 2025 since the last census nine years ago, due to consecutive droughts.
  • What measures has the government taken to address the crisis?
    The government has suspended import duties and value-added tax on cattle, sheep, camels, and red meat to keep prices stable in the domestic market, and has signed a deal to import up to 100,000 sheep from Australia.
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