Morocco invests MAD 6.2 billion to revitalize livestock sector

Friday 23 May 2025 - 17:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco invests MAD 6.2 billion to revitalize livestock sector

Morocco’s Minister of Agriculture, Ahmed Bouari, recently unveiled a comprehensive national program designed to rejuvenate the country's livestock sector, which has suffered from ongoing drought and climate variability. This initiative represents a significant governmental effort to support farmers grappling with the adverse effects of these environmental challenges.

The program allocates MAD 3 billion (approximately $300 million) in funding through the end of 2025, with an additional MAD 3.2 billion ($320 million) earmarked for 2026. This latter amount will serve as direct financial aid to livestock breeders dedicated to maintaining reproductive female animals.

During a press briefing following the Government Council meeting, Minister Bouari articulated that this initiative is in accordance with royal directives and serves as a direct response to the severe impact of erratic rainfall and prolonged drought conditions on both agriculture and pasturelands.

The program is structured around five principal pillars, implemented through local committees that adhere to specific criteria. The first pillar aims to alleviate the debt burden on livestock farmers. Approximately 50,000 farmers will benefit from debt relief measures totaling MAD 700 million ($70 million). This includes a 50% cancellation of both principal and interest for debts under MAD 100,000 ($10,000), which encompasses 75% of the beneficiaries. Additionally, a 25% cancellation will apply to debts between MAD 100,000 and MAD 200,000 ($10,000–$20,000), covering 11% of the beneficiaries, while larger debts exceeding MAD 200,000 ($20,000+) will undergo restructuring with waivers on late penalties.

The second pillar designates MAD 2.5 billion ($250 million) to support livestock feed, featuring subsidies of MAD 1.5 ($0.15) per kilogram for barley (covering 7 million quintals) and MAD 2 ($0.20) per kilogram for mixed feed intended for sheep and goats.

The third component focuses on the preservation of reproductive females, with plans to identify over 8 million ewes and goats by May 2026. Farmers will receive direct financial assistance of MAD 400 ($40) for each identified and non-slaughtered female.

A nationwide animal health campaign constitutes the fourth pillar of this initiative. With a budget of MAD 150 million ($15 million), this campaign aims to vaccinate and treat 17 million livestock against diseases associated with drought.

Finally, the fifth pillar emphasizes technical support and genetic improvement, allocating MAD 50 million ($5 million) for training and assisting breeders in enhancing herd quality.

Minister Bouari characterized the program as a crucial step in tackling the economic and climatic challenges confronting Morocco’s livestock sector, urging a collective commitment to ensure its successful implementation.