Moroccan King calls for suspension of animal sacrifice during Eid al-Adha

King Mohammed VI of Morocco has called on the citizens of the country not to perform the traditional act of animal sacrifice during this year’s Eid al-Adha due to the severe drought and the resulting economic impact on livestock.

The drought, exacerbated by climate change, has led to a significant drop in animal populations and a sharp increase in meat prices, making it difficult for many Moroccans to afford the ritual.

The King’s message, read aloud by Morocco’s Minister of Religious Affairs and Endowments, Ahmed et-Tevfik, on state television, urged citizens to forgo animal sacrifice this year.

King Mohammed VI, recognizing the challenges posed by the drought and economic hardships, announced that he would personally perform the sacrifice on behalf of the Moroccan people.

The message conveyed to the public explained that, in light of the current climate and economic difficulties, the act of animal sacrifice, which is a strong religious tradition, may cause significant financial burdens, especially for low-income families.

Morocco’s history of stopping sacrifices

This is not the first time Morocco has made such a request. The country asked its citizens to forgo animal sacrifice during Eid al-Adha in 1963, 1981, and 1996 due to similar economic or environmental challenges.

Morocco has been grappling with severe drought for the past seven years, leading to a 38% decline in the number of livestock over the past 12 months.

Rainfall has been 53% below average this year, leaving grazing land scarce, which has further impacted the livestock population.

Relying on imports from Australia

This decline in animal numbers has caused a rise in meat prices, with imports of live cattle, sheep, and red meat increasing to meet local demand.

For many citizens, particularly those with a monthly minimum wage of around €290, the increase in meat prices has added an extra burden.

In response, Morocco recently signed an agreement to import up to 100,000 sheep from Australia to help address the shortfall.

To help stabilize the domestic market, Morocco’s 2025 budget has included measures to suspend import taxes and value-added taxes on beef, sheep, camels, and red meat.

This move aims to keep meat prices stable for the population during these challenging times.

As King Mohammed VI’s message emphasized, while the animal sacrifice ritual will not take place this year, the Moroccan people will continue to honor the spirit and significance of Eid al-Adha, with the King fulfilling the sacrifice on their behalf.