Morocco Launches MAD 6.2 Billion National Program to Restore Livestock Sector
Rabat – Morocco's Minister of Agriculture, Ahmed Bouari, announced on Thursday the launch of a new national program aimed at rebuilding the country's livestock sector and supporting farmers affected by persistent drought and climate fluctuations.
The plan allocates MAD 3 billion ($300 million) in funding through the end of 2025, with an additional MAD 3.2 billion ($320 million) earmarked for 2026. The latter will be provided as direct financial support to livestock breeders committed to preserving reproductive females.
Speaking at a press briefing following Thursday's Government Council meeting, Minister Bouari emphasized that the initiative aligns with royal directives and is a direct response to the harsh impact of irregular rainfall and prolonged drought on agriculture and pasturelands.
The program is built around five main pillars and will be implemented through local committees under clearly defined criteria. The first pillar focuses on relieving livestock farmers of debt. Approximately 50,000 farmers will benefit from debt relief measures worth MAD 700 million ($70 million).
These include a 50% cancellation of both principal and interest for debts under MAD 100,000 ($10,000), which covers 75% of the beneficiaries, a 25% cancellation for debts between MAD 100,000 and MAD 200,000 ($10,000–$20,000) covering 11% of the beneficiaries, and the restructuring of larger debts over MAD 200,000 ($20,000+) with a waiver on late penalties.
The second pillar allocates MAD 2.5 billion ($250 million) to support livestock feed . This includes 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 designated for sheep and goats.
The third component targets the preservation of reproductive females. Over 8 million ewes and goats are set to be identified by May 2026. Farmers will receive direct financial aid of MAD 400 ($40) per identified and non-slaughtered female.
A fourth pillar involves a nationwide animal health campaign. With a budget of MAD 150 million ($15 million), the campaign will vaccinate and treat 17 million heads of livestock against drought-related diseases.
The final pillar focuses on technical support and genetic improvement. MAD 50 million ($5 million) will be allocated to training and assisting breeders in enhancing herd quality.
Minister Bouari described the program as a strategic step to address the economic and climate challenges facing Morocco's livestock sector, and called for collective efforts to ensure its success. Tags: Eid Al Adhalivestocklivestock in Morocco
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