Morocco Bans Eid al-Adha Sacrifices Amid Drought and Economic Crisis

Report by “Safarti Tarjuman” International News Desk

Rabat,_ In a historic move, Morocco has imposed a nationwide ban on animal sacrifices for Eid al-Adha 2025, citing severe drought and economic hardship. The decision, announced under royal directive, has triggered the closure of livestock markets and disrupted long-standing religious and economic traditions.

King Mohammed VI issued the unprecedented directive, highlighting the urgent need to protect Morocco’s shrinking livestock population after three years of extreme drought. Reservoir levels have fallen to just 23% of their capacity, while the nation’s cattle and sheep numbers have plummeted by over 40% since 2022.

Agriculture Minister Mohammed Sadiki emphasized the critical nature of the situation, calling livestock preservation “a national security issue” during a televised statement.

In line with the decree, all seasonal and public livestock markets have been closed, with additional restrictions imposed in some areas on slaughterhouses and butchery tools. The ban is part of a broader conservation effort focused on stabilizing rural communities already suffering from soaring feed costs and agricultural decline.

The decision has dealt a major blow to seasonal workers and small vendors who rely on Eid al-Adha for the majority of their annual income. In cities like Marrakech, sellers expressed frustration and despair over the loss of their livelihoods.

In a televised message, Minister of Islamic Affairs Ahmed Toufiq relayed the King’s appeal for restraint, stating that while Qurbani (sacrifice) remains a Sunnah Mu’akkadah, Islamic law permits exemptions during national emergencies such as famine or financial collapse.

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