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Agriculture

Ample Livestock Supply Ensures Seamless Eid Al-Adha Celebration in Morocco

Tuesday 21 May 2024 - 10:25

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As the Islamic festival of Eid Al-Adha approaches, Morocco's Ministry of Agriculture has announced that the nation is well-prepared to meet the heightened demand for sacrificial animals. According to Minister Mohamed Sadiki, a meticulous evaluation has estimated the total supply of sheep and goats designated for slaughter during the auspicious occasion at an impressive 7.8 million heads.

Addressing the Parliament's Lower House, Sadiki provided a detailed breakdown of the figures, revealing that the supply comprises 6.8 million sheep and 1 million goats. This substantial offering is expected to comfortably fulfill the anticipated demand, estimated at around 6 million heads, with 5.4 million sheep and 600,000 goats.

Preparations in Full Swing

Sadiki's remarks highlighted the ministry's proactive measures to ensure a seamless celebration. As of now, 4.8 million sheep and goats have already been prepared for slaughter, while the importation of 220,000 additional sheep is underway, with projections indicating a potential total of 600,000 imported heads by the end of the week.

Safeguarding National Livestock and Price Stability

The minister shed light on the temporary import subsidy of 500 dirhams per head, implemented from March 15 to June 15. This exceptional measure aimed to preserve Morocco's national livestock while stabilizing market prices, underscoring the government's commitment to ensuring a balanced supply and affordability for citizens during the festive season.

Fluctuations in National Herd

Sadiki's comprehensive report also touched upon the state of Morocco's national herd. Based on recent statistics, the country witnessed a 2% decline in its sheep population compared to the previous year, with 20.3 million heads recorded. Additionally, the goat population experienced a 4% decrease, standing at 5.4 million heads.

Traceability and Monitoring Measures

To ensure transparency and accountability, the ministry has implemented robust traceability measures. A total of 214,000 livestock breeding and fattening units intended for Eid Al-Adha sacrifices have been registered, facilitating data collection and monitoring processes.

Stringent Health and Safety Controls

Prioritizing public health and safety, the National Office for Food Safety (ONSSA) conducted 2,015 inspections on animal feed and veterinary medicines. These rigorous controls led to the issuance of three citations for illegal sales of veterinary drugs in El Jadida, Khemisset, and Marrakech, as well as the seizure of 13 tons of non-compliant animal feed in Beni Mellal.

Furthermore, ONSSA issued 950 permits for poultry waste disposal and seized and destroyed 10 tons of poultry waste in Sidi Ifni and 24 tons in El Kelaa des Sraghna, underscoring the ministry's commitment to maintaining high standards of hygiene and environmental protection.

Infrastructural Enhancements

To bolster existing infrastructure, the Ministry of Agriculture has coordinated with local authorities to establish and equip 34 temporary livestock markets across the kingdom's regions, ensuring a smooth distribution process during the festive period.

As Morocco prepares to celebrate Eid Al-Adha, the comprehensive measures undertaken by the Ministry of Agriculture, including robust supply management, stringent health controls, and infrastructural enhancements, aim to uphold the nation's tradition of joyous and secure observance of this significant religious occasion.