"An abundance of sheep, but at exorbitant prices. It's impossible to buy a lamb for less than 110,000 FCFA." In Thiès, on the eve of Eid al-Adha, the observation remains unanimous among buyers. "The situation remains alarming in the livestock market, which is, however, very well supplied. But the sheep are being offered by overly greedy sellers and resellers at exorbitant, inflated, outrageous prices, beyond the reach of many heads of households," lament the buyers.

In the already flooded "Daarals" (livestock markets) of the Thiès department, flocks of sheep continue to arrive. On a tour in preparation for Tabaski 2026, with his Mauritanian counterpart, visiting the livestock markets of Touba Toul and Séwé Khaye in the Thiès department this Saturday, May 23, 2026, the Senegalese Minister of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty, and Livestock will observe that the sheep market in Thiès is abundantly supplied and animals continue to be transported to satisfy the needs of the faithful.

But, according to many buyers, "the prices, far from being affordable for the average citizen, are generally very high compared to the average citizen's purchasing power." This situation is observed both at the numerous sales points scattered throughout the city and at the gigantic international livestock market of Séw-Khaye, considered the largest livestock market in Senegal, in the commune of Ngoundiane (department of Thiès).

El-Hadji Ciré Balley Diallo, the national vice-president of SOS Consommateurs and head of the Thiès regional branch, complains: "As for the supply of sheep, there are plenty, but prices are rising." He would like to see "regional councils" held immediately after the festival, bringing together all stakeholders to reflect objectively and truthfully on the situation in order to find radical and lasting solutions.

Mr. Diallo also calls for the establishment of "modern livestock markets," equipped with all necessary amenities and staffed with veterinary agents. He further believes that the mayors of all municipalities should be able to identify suitable spaces within their respective localities.