Moroccan Official Denies Reports of Mass Culling of Stray Dogs
Mohamed Roudani, Head of the Department of Health Preservation and Green Spaces at the General Directorate of Territorial Communities, said the reports circulating in some international media are 'completely unfounded.'
'There is no campaign to eradicate stray dogs,' Roudani told MAP news agency. 'The claims that Morocco is planning to eliminate three million stray dogs before the World Cup have no basis.'
His statement comes in response to growing criticism from animal rights groups and activists, who have accused Morocco of carrying out mass killings of stray dogs ahead of major tournaments.
Some activists suggested that authorities have been culling dogs in preparation for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the 2030 World Cup, which Morocco is co-hosting.
Several animal welfare associations condemned what they described as a 'cruel and inhumane' approach , and called on authorities to adopt ethical and sustainable solutions instead. Some groups shared images and testimonies online claiming that stray dogs were being poisoned or shot in various cities.
In response Roudani said that Moroccan local authorities are committed to 'humane and sustainable' solutions in dealing with stray dogs. Municipalities are working in line with international animal welfare standards and are implementing various measures to control the stray dog population ethically, he argued.
To address the issue, Roudani added, the Interior Ministry supports municipalities in several initiatives, including building and equipping animal clinics, implementing the TNR (Trap, Neuter, Vaccinate, and Release) method. They are especially reinforcing public health offices with veterinarians, nurses, and technicians, he concluded. Tags: 2030 World Cup and Moroccostray dogsstray dogs morocco
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Morocco World
3 hours ago
- Morocco World
Houcine Ammouta Parts Ways with Al Jazira
Al Jazira have confirmed the departure of head coach Houcine Ammouta following the club's defeat to Khorfakkan. The Emirati side announced the termination of his contract this week, thanking Ammouta and his backroom staff for their work and wishing them success in the future. The loss to Khorfakkan, in which Moroccan forward Tarik Tissoudali scored once and provided two assists, appears to have been a decisive factor. Ammouta joined Al Jazira in the summer of 2024 on a two-year deal, aiming to restore the club to the top of Emirati football. His spell, however, ends less than a year later. The 55-year-old has enjoyed a notable coaching career. With Jordan, he guided the national team to their first AFC Asian Cup final in 2023 and helped them top their World Cup qualifying group, laying the groundwork for the 2026 qualifiers and the 2027 Asian Cup. His approach, based on possession, high pressing and quick transitions, proved highly effective, bringing the best out of players such as Musa Al-Tamari and Yazan Al-Naimat. He stepped down from the Jordan post in June 2024 for personal reasons. His successor, Jamal Sellami, later led the side to their first World Cup qualification, building on the foundations Ammouta left behind. Tags: Al JaziraAmmoutaUAE
Morocco World
4 hours ago
- Morocco World
Brahim Díaz: Xabi Alonso's Secret Weapon Ahead of Opener
Real Madrid will begin their LaLiga season on August 19 with a visit to Osasuna, and coach Xabi Alonso faces a key decision over his starting lineup. The side must field a strong eleven against a team known for its resilience, and Brahim Díaz could be key. The right-wing spot has been the main question. Preseason suggested Arda Güler or Brahim Díaz, with Rodrygo also in contention. However, Alonso has opted for new signing Franco Mastantuono. The Argentine, signed from River Plate, has impressed in training and is expected to start, reflecting Real Madrid's commitment to integrating young talent immediately. Brahim Díaz, though not starting, remains an important option. Alonso praised the Moroccan's technical quality, vision, and ability in tight spaces. He said: 'I found Brahim in good shape. I knew him before and I understand well the difference he can make, and the way he reads his position on the pitch.' He added: 'In tight spaces, he is an excellent player. So his level did not surprise me.' Alonso's comments underline Díaz's role as a key contributor this season, whether as a substitute or in other matches. Competition with Díaz, Güler, and Rodrygo is expected to keep the squad sharp throughout the campaign. Real Madrid face Osasuna tomorrow at 20:00 GMT+1, aiming to start the new LaLiga season strongly, blending experience and emerging talent. Tags: Brahim Diazla ligaosasunaReal MadridXabi Alonso
Ya Biladi
13 hours ago
- Ya Biladi
Morocco advances to CHAN quarterfinals with victory over DR Congo
The Moroccan national team, composed of local players, has advanced to the quarter-finals of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) after a decisive 3-1 victory over DR Congo. This crucial match took place on Sunday at Nairobi's Nyayo Stadium, marking the fifth and final matchday of Group A. The Atlas Lions clinched their win with goals from Oussama Lamlaoui, who scored in the 8th and 80th minutes, and Mohamed Hrimat, who converted a penalty in the 70th minute. DR Congo's sole goal came from Jephte Kitambala Bola in the 43rd minute. With the conclusion of this matchday, Morocco secured second place in Group A, amassing 9 points. They trail behind Kenya, who topped the group with 10 points after edging out Zambia 1-0, thanks to a goal by Ryan Ogam in the 75th minute. Looking ahead to the semi-finals, the Moroccan squad is set to face Tanzania next Friday at 6:00 PM in Dar es Salaam.
