On This Eid al-Adha, Hard-Hit Egyptians Make Extra Sacrifice

A promotional banner of the Egyptian president and his “Citizens First” initiative hangs over a state-run shop that sells subsidized meat amid the debt-ridden country’s ongoing cost-of-living crisis, in Cairo, June 25, 2023. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)

Hamdy, a butcher who sells state-subsidized meat, says, "Even though we offer high quality cuts at the cheapest prices in the market, the turnout is low so far." In Cairo, Egypt, June 25, 2023. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)

Livestock sellers have noticed the cost-saving trend of up to seven families sharing one cow, as advised by Egypt’s top fatwa council this “Feast of Sacrifice,” which marks the end of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)

Said, a livestock seller, says, “I’ve only sold 60 of the 100 sheep that I brought to [the market] this Eid. Most of my regulars, who used to buy two or three sheep, bought just one, and some haven’t even come by.” Hamada Elrasam/VOA)

Mostafa, who recycles animal skins and preserves them with salt, says, “Last year, 50 kilograms of salt cost four Egyptian pounds. Now it's 40 pounds. I'm not hiring extra workers this Eid, as fewer people are sacrificing animals.” (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)

Mohamed, a coal vendor, says, “Our prices didn't increase this year, but who wants to roast expensive meat when they can benefit from the soup? I only brought half the amount of coal, and almost nothing has sold yet.” (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)

Menno, in his family’s knife-sharpening shop, says, “I expected high profits this Eid and planned my marriage accordingly. But I’ve delayed it for a couple more months, since I can’t commit to all the financial obligations.” (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)

Ahmed, who manages a foundation that supports low-income college students, says, “Our budget can only afford half the meat this year. We’re torn between giving meat to half the students or half a portion to all of them.” (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)

This family of 10 lives on one daily meal that mostly includes basic food items from state subsidies and private charities. Egypt’s bread subsidy program, for example, is a lifeline for them and about two-thirds of Egyptians. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)