Morocco Cancels Eid al-Adha Animal Sacrifice Amid Drought and Economic Crisis

In a historic move, Moroccan authorities have launched a nationwide campaign to close livestock markets and suspend the traditional animal sacrifice for Eid al-Adha 2025, following a directive from King Mohammed VI. The decision, driven by a severe drought and economic challenges, aims to protect the nation’s dwindling livestock population and alleviate financial pressures on citizens facing soaring meat prices. This marks the fourth time in Morocco’s history that the Eid al-Adha sacrifice, known as *Qurbani*, has been canceled, reflecting the gravity of the current crisis.

Royal Directive Addresses Unprecedented Challenges

On February 26, 2025, King Mohammed VI, revered as *Amir al-Mu’minin* (Commander of the Faithful), announced the suspension of the Eid al-Adha sacrifice, citing a 38% decline in Morocco’s cattle and sheep herds since 2016, a consequence of seven consecutive years of drought. In a televised address, Minister of Islamic Affairs Ahmed Toufiq conveyed the king’s message, noting that the drought—coupled with a 53% reduction in rainfall compared to the 30-year average—has decimated pastures and driven animal feed costs up by 50% in three years.

The king highlighted the economic burden of the ritual, particularly for low-income households, stating, “Performing this rite under these difficult circumstances would cause real harm to large segments of our people.” To preserve the spiritual essence of Eid al-Adha, which commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God, King Mohammed VI pledged to perform a symbolic sacrifice on behalf of all Moroccans. This gesture echoes the tradition of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who sacrificed two rams—one for his household and one for those unable to perform the ritual.

Nationwide Enforcement of Market Closures

To enforce the directive, the Moroccan government issued orders to governors and local officials to close all public and seasonal livestock markets, which typically see heightened activity in the weeks leading up to Eid al-Adha. In several provinces, authorities have extended the ban to include municipal slaughterhouses and the sale of slaughter tools, ensuring strict compliance. Reports indicate that security forces in some areas have intercepted illegal animal sales, though claims of home raids to confiscate sacrificial sheep remain unverified and controversial.

The Ministry of Interior has emphasized that these measures aim to protect both the environment and the economic well-being of citizens. The closures follow a precedent set in 1963, 1981, and 1996, when similar cancellations were enacted under King Hassan II due to war, drought, and economic constraints.

Economic Fallout for Farmers and Traders

The cancellation is poised to deliver a significant blow to Morocco’s livestock sector, particularly for seasonal workers, small-scale farmers, and street vendors who rely on Eid al-Adha for a substantial portion of their annual income. Larbi El Ghazouani, a 55-year-old farmer from Ouled Slama, told AP News, “There’s a difference between the years before the drought and what we’re suffering today.” Having invested heavily in 130 sheep for the holiday, he now faces losses of nearly half his investment due to the market closures.[

The livestock industry, already strained by six years of drought, is grappling with plunging prices, mounting debt, and low consumer demand. Rural communities, where livestock farming sustains thousands of livelihoods, are particularly vulnerable. The government has acknowledged these challenges, launching a MAD 6.2 billion ($620 million) program to rebuild the sector through financial aid, animal health campaigns, and genetic improvement initiatives. Additionally, a ban on slaughtering female sheep and goats until March 2026 aims to preserve breeding stock.

To stabilize meat prices, Morocco has suspended import duties and value-added taxes on livestock and red meat in its 2025 budget and secured an agreement to import 100,000 sheep from Australia. These measures aim to bolster supply and mitigate the economic impact on consumers and farmers alike.

What is the Public Reaction in Morocco?

The decision has sparked a range of reactions across Morocco. Many citizens have praised King Mohammed VI’s leadership, viewing the symbolic sacrifice as a compassionate gesture that aligns with Islamic principles of prioritizing public welfare. Islamic scholar Muhammad Abdelouahab Rafiqui supported the move, stating, “The ruler has the right to intervene for the public good,” citing Islamic law’s allowance for suspending religious practices under exceptional circumstances.

However, the cancellation has also ignited controversy, with some Moroccans expressing frustration on social media platforms like X, where slogans such as “Eid without Sacrifice… A National Disgrace” have gained traction. Critics argue that the ban undermines a sacred tradition central to Eid al-Adha’s spiritual and communal significance. Unverified reports of security forces raiding homes to confiscate sacrificial animals have further fueled discontent, though such claims lack official confirmation.

With the *Qurbani* ritual suspended, Moroccans are encouraged to focus on the spiritual and charitable aspects of Eid al-Adha, set for June 7, 2025, after the crescent moon was not sighted on May 27, extending the month of Dhu al-Qa’dah to 30 days. The holiday will begin with the *Salat al-Eid* (Eid prayer), followed by communal gatherings and acts of charity, such as donating to food banks or supporting local relief organizations. These efforts aim to preserve the festival’s themes of faith, generosity, and community amid the absence of the traditional sacrifice.

The government has also announced an exceptional public holiday on June 9, 2025, for government departments and local authorities, allowing Moroccans additional time to celebrate and reflect.

Morocco’s decision reflects broader environmental and economic challenges. The ongoing drought, described as the worst in decades, has strained water reserves, with rainfall 53% below average, impacting agriculture and livestock production. The government’s long-term strategy includes a MAD 3 billion ($300 million) program for 2025 and an additional MAD 3.2 billion ($320 million) in 2026 to support livestock breeders and preserve female breeding stock.

The cancellation also aligns with Morocco’s efforts to balance cultural traditions with economic realities. While the country remains a key player in Africa’s automotive and trade sectors, with growing investments from China, the agricultural sector’s vulnerability to climate change underscores the need for sustainable solutions.

What’s Next for Moroccans

As Eid al-Adha approaches, Moroccans are adapting to a holiday without its hallmark ritual. Families are encouraged to plan alternative celebrations, such as hosting festive meals with imported or previously sourced meat, exchanging *Eidi* (gifts for children), and participating in community service. For those seeking to uphold the charitable spirit of Eid, organizations like the Moroccan Red Crescent and international Islamic relief agencies offer opportunities to donate food or funds to those in need.

For the latest updates on Morocco’s livestock policies or to explore charitable options for Eid al-Adha, visit the Ministry of Agriculture’s official website (www.agriculture.gov.ma) or contact local Islamic organizations. As Morocco navigates this challenging period, the focus remains on unity, compassion, and resilience in the face of adversity.