The Humane Society of Morocco is determined to end the exploitation of captive wild animals in Marrakesh.
The exploitation of captive wild animals for profit and entertainment in Morocco, especially in touristic cities like Marrakesh has gone on for far too long. Jemaa El Fna, a globally recognized market and cultural hub, is unfortunately also a site where animals suffer daily in full view of locals and tourists alike.
Barbary macaque monkeys, in particular, are subjected to severe exploitation as photo props for tourists. These monkeys are often chained and paraded from one visitor to another, dressed in inappropriate clothing, and exposed to overwhelming crowds and noise without any refuge. They endure physical mistreatment and are frequently confined in dark crates during transport.
The plight of these monkeys is compounded by their endangered status; the International Union for Conservation of Nature classifies Barbary macaques as Endangered, with fewer than 15,000 remaining in the wild. Despite receiving the highest level of protection against commercial trade in 2016, hundreds continue to be illegally captured for the exploitative photo prop industry and the exotic pet trade.
Other animals, including snakes, eagles, also suffer similar fates as they are used for tourist photos. This exploitation persists under the guise of tradition, a justification we reject outright.
We urge you to support our mission to end this abuse by contacting the Mayor of Marrakesh. Together, we can put an end to Morocco’s disgraceful treatment of monkeys and other animals.
The situation is dire for Barbary macaques, whose population has dwindled alarmingly due to illegal poaching, habitat destruction, and exploitation.
• Poaching and trafficking: Each year, countless young macaques are stolen from the wild. Many are smuggled into Europe under horrific conditions, often drugged and crammed into small containers. The mortality rate is alarmingly high, and these practices remain one of the biggest threats to the species’ survival.
• Habitat loss: Human activities like logging, overgrazing, and climate change are destroying the forests of Morocco, where these primates live. Ifrane National Park is one of their last safe havens, but even this area is under pressure.
Experts predict that Barbary macaques could disappear from the wild within 15 to 20 years without immediate intervention. The loss of this species would mark the extinction of the only macaque native to North Africa.
To secure a future for Barbary macaques and other exploited animals, we propose a comprehensive strategy:
1. Protect
o Enforce strict anti-poaching laws.
o Halt the smuggling of animals to Europe and other regions.
o Provide immediate shelter and care for rescued animals.
2. Educate
o Increase public awareness about the suffering caused by animal exploitation.
o Encourage locals and tourists alike to reject unethical practices and demand humane alternatives.
3. Preserve
o Safeguard and restore natural habitats, particularly in areas like the Middle Atlas Mountains.
o Develop sustainable funding and conservation programs to ensure long-term protection.
The suffering of animals in Marrakesh is a tragedy that must end. The Barbary macaque belongs in the wild, not on a chain in a bustling square. Together, we can put an end to this exploitation and protect one of North Africa’s most iconic species for future generations.
Please stand with us in calling for an end to these inhumane practices. Every voice matters, and your actions can help create lasting change.
It’s time to end the exploitation of wild animals in Marrakesh. Here’s how you can take action:
1. Appeal to the Mayor of Marrakesh
Reach out to Ms. Fatima Zahra Mansouri, the Mayor of Marrakesh, and urge her to enforce laws that protect these animals and ban the cruel practices at Jemaa El Fna. Use our template email or craft your own message to demand change.
2. Spread Awareness
Help raise awareness by sharing this message with friends, family, and your online community. The more people understand the cruelty behind these practices, the greater our collective pressure for reform will be.
Sign the petition.
3. Support Our Efforts
Your contributions can help us rescue animals, provide them care, and continue our advocacy to end animal exploitation in Morocco.
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