In brief
King Mohammed VI's recent call for Moroccans to skip the traditional sheep slaughter for Eid al-Adha has sparked relief among families suffering from economic hardship and prolonged drought. The king’s letter, delivered by the Islamic affairs minister, emphasized the financial burden many face, stating that continuing the ritual under current circumstances could cause harm, particularly to low-income families.
Moroccan families traditionally celebrate the Feast of Sacrifice with prayers and meals featuring lamb, but the escalating food prices and prolonged drought—leading to diminished harvest yields and lessened water availability—have made such practices unsustainable for many. The king also pledged to perform the sacrifice on behalf of his people, acknowledging the challenges tied to climate change and economic decline, as recent rainfall has plummeted significantly.
