Morocco allocates $100 Million for stray dog care amid allegations of mass killings

Morocco’s Interior Ministry has announced a $100 million investment to address the country’s more than two million stray dogs through the creation of 130 new communal hygiene offices, according to Morocco World News.

The facilities will be equipped with 130 veterinarians who will oversee animal shelters and coordinate efforts to sterilize and vaccinate stray dogs.

The initiative follows criticism from animal rights organizations that allege authorities have been killing stray dogs in preparation for major international sporting events including the 2030 World Cup, which Morocco will co-host. Notably, conservationist Jane Goodall and others have urged FIFA to intervene and suspend the events.

Moroccan officials deny there are plans for mass culling ahead of the games.