Morocco Suspends Eid al-Adha Sheep Slaughter Amid Severe Livestock Decline

Rabat, Feb 26 (Reuters) – King Mohammed VI of Morocco has called on citizens to forgo the traditional sheep sacrifice during this year’s Eid al-Adha, citing a significant decline in the country’s livestock due to prolonged drought.

Eid al-Adha, observed in June, commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. Traditionally, Muslims mark the occasion by slaughtering sheep or goats, with the meat distributed among family and the less fortunate.

However, Morocco's sheep and cattle populations have shrunk by 38% since the last livestock census nine years ago, primarily due to consecutive years of drought. The King, who is also the country’s supreme religious authority, emphasized the need to consider the economic and climatic challenges Morocco faces.

"Our commitment to ensuring you can fulfill this religious rite under the best conditions must also take into account the hardships caused by declining livestock numbers," the King stated in a letter read on national television by Religious Affairs Minister Ahmed Taoufiq. He warned that proceeding with the sacrifice under these difficult circumstances could cause financial strain, particularly for low-income households.

This year, rainfall levels were 53% lower than the 30-year average, reducing available pasture and driving up meat prices. In response, Morocco has increased imports of live cattle, sheep, and red meat. The government has also removed import duties and value-added tax on these products as part of its 2025 budget to stabilize domestic prices. Additionally, Morocco recently signed an agreement to import up to 100,000 sheep from Australia to meet demand.

The King’s appeal reflects the country’s broader efforts to address food security challenges while balancing religious traditions with economic realities.