Tunisians Celebrate Waqfa Day with Goat Sacrifices, as Millions of Pilgrims Gather in Mecca
A Fundamental Ritual of the Hajj
In several regions of Tunisia, many citizens celebrate Waqfa Day by sacrificing a "berchni" (milk-fed kid) or a goat, as the meat is renowned for its nutritional benefits. The day precedes Aïd el-Idha, a significant holiday in the Islamic calendar.
Over 2 Million Pilgrims Begin Hajj Journey in Mecca
More than 2 million pilgrims, including 1.518.153 foreigners from around the world, have started the grand pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. The highlight of the hajj will take place today, with the ascent of Mount Arafat, the highest point of the pilgrimage. This year, approximately 11,000 Tunisian pilgrims, including 9,982 from within the country and 1,000 expatriates, are participating in the hajj, accompanied by 330 official guides.
A Scorching Heat and a Record Number of Pilgrims
The pilgrims spent the night in tents set up in the Mina Valley, seven kilometers from the Grand Mosque of Mecca, the holiest site in Islam. At dawn, they converged on Mount Arafat, where the Prophet Muhammad is believed to have delivered his final sermon, to perform the most important ritual of the pilgrimage. In 2025, 1.67 million pilgrims had made the journey, including 1.5 million foreigners.
The Nutritional Benefits of Goat Meat
Goat meat is considered a fundamental ritual of the hajj, which precedes Aïd el-Idha in several regions of Tunisia. Many citizens celebrate Waqfa Day by sacrificing a "berchni" (milk-fed kid) or a goat. Internationally, goat meat is the most consumed meat, accounting for nearly 63% of red meat consumption worldwide, according to a scientific article titled "Nutritive value of goat meat" published in the journal "Extension" of Alabama A&M And Auburn Universities.
Nutritional Facts
For 85g of goat meat:
- Calories: 122
- Fat (g): 2.6
- Saturated fatty acids (g): 0.79
- Protein (g): 23
- Cholesterol (mg): 67.8
- Iron (mg): 3.3
Goat meat is prized for its delicate flavor, low fat content, and numerous health benefits:
- 50-65% less fat than beef (when cooked similarly) with equivalent protein content
- Low cholesterol content
- Excellent nutritional value
A Popular Choice for Health-Conscious Individuals
Goat meat is highly regarded for its protein quality. Compared to sheep meat (lamb or mutton) or beef, it has a lower fat content and fewer saturated fatty acids. Its cholesterol content is also lower, making it an attractive option for those following a low-calorie and low-cholesterol diet.
A "Poor Man's Meat"
Goat meat is often referred to as "poor man's meat" and has a reputation for being strong-tasting. However, only milk-fed kid meat, slaughtered before five months, is considered acceptable in culinary circles. To preserve its tenderness and flavor, the meat should be cooked slowly over low heat.
Traditional Tunisian Cuisine
In Tunisian cuisine, goat meat is used to prepare various dishes, including "mchalouat" in the Cap Bon region, "bazine" in Sfax, and "qlaya" in other regions. The remaining meat is used to make "mermez" and "merguez."
