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Agadir's Ambitious Stray Animal Shelter: Morocco's Humane Approach to Urban Wildlife Management
Morocco is taking a significant step forward in addressing its stray animal crisis with the construction of a major shelter in Agadir. This state-of-the-art facility, designed to accommodate approximately 1,000 dogs and 200 cats, represents a shift towards more humane and sustainable urban animal management practices.
With a substantial investment of 26 million Moroccan dirhams ($2.6 million), the project covers an impressive 3,941 square meters. The shelter's design adheres to international animal welfare standards set by the World Health Organization and the World Organisation for Animal Health, ensuring the highest level of care for its residents.
Hossein Boudrar, Vice President of the Agadir Municipal Council and head of the Municipal Hygiene Office, emphasized the project's dual focus on improving public health and hygiene services. The facility aims to create a safe environment for both stray animals and city residents while offering comprehensive veterinary care, including sterilization and vaccination programs to curb disease transmission.
This initiative marks a significant departure from Morocco's past approaches to managing stray animals, which often involved culling. Recognizing the need for more ethical solutions, the country has been working towards implementing alternatives that prioritize animal welfare without compromising public safety.
The Agadir shelter is part of a broader national effort to address the challenges posed by stray animals. The Ministry of Interior, through the Directorate General of Local Authorities (DGCT), has been providing increased support to local communities, allocating an annual budget of nearly 70 million dirhams ($7.3 million) over the past five years for equipment and resources.
A key component of Morocco's new strategy is a partnership established in 2019 between various government entities, including the DGCT, the Ministry of Health, the National Office for Sanitary Safety of Food Products (ONSSA), and the National Order of Veterinarians. This collaboration focuses on a "catch, neuter, vaccinate, and release" program, aligning with international best practices for humane stray animal management.
As Morocco continues to develop its approach to urban wildlife, the Agadir shelter stands as a testament to the country's commitment to balancing public health concerns with compassionate animal care. This project not only addresses immediate challenges but also sets a precedent for future urban planning and animal welfare initiatives across the nation.