King Mohammed VI of Morocco has requested that citizens abstain from sheep sacrifices this Eid Al Adha due to a significant decrease in livestock caused by prolonged drought. With livestock numbers down by 38% and rainfall reduced by 53% compared to historical averages, the country’s food security and economic stability are at risk. To address rising meat prices, Morocco plans to import sheep from Australia.
King Mohammed VI of Morocco has urged citizens to refrain from the traditional sheep sacrifices during Eid Al Adha this year due to significant declines in livestock resulting from prolonged drought conditions. The country’s herd has dropped by 38% over the past 12 months, exacerbated by a seventh consecutive year of reduced rainfall, which has impacted food availability for livestock significantly.
According to the agriculture ministry, rainfall levels in 2025 were reported to be 53% lower than the average over the last three decades. This alarming decrease in precipitation has left pastures barren and livestock unable to feed adequately. In a speech delivered by the Minister of Religious Affairs, the king expressed deep concern over the climatic and economic adversity facing the nation.
While recognizing the cultural significance of Eid Al Adha, the king emphasized the necessity of prioritizing public welfare in his message, stating that, “Our commitment to enabling you to fulfil this religious rite … is accompanied by the duty to consider the climatic and economic challenges facing our country.” He remarked that continuing with the sacrifice rite “under these difficult circumstances will cause significant harm to large segments of our people, especially those with limited income.”
The ongoing decline in meat production has led to soaring prices in local markets, prompting Morocco to explore alternative sources to meet demand. Recently, the Moroccan government has engaged in discussions to import up to 100,000 sheep from Australia in response to domestic shortages. Eid Al Adha, which commemorates the willingness of the prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son, holds profound religious importance across the Muslim world.
In summary, King Mohammed VI’s appeal to citizens to forgo sheep sacrifices during Eid Al Adha highlights the critical impact of sustained drought on Morocco’s livestock and economy. With a notable decrease in both rainfall and meat production, the king has prioritized public health and economic stability over tradition, advocating for compassion towards those facing financial hardships. The measures taken to import sheep indicate a proactive approach to addressing these challenges during a significant religious observance.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
