Viral video leads to rescue of pony used for tourist photos in Meknes

Viral video leads to rescue of pony used for tourist photos in Meknes
Friday 30 January 2026 - 00:20

A pony named Halima has been rescued from the streets of Meknes after a video of her exhaustion went viral, prompting immediate intervention from animal welfare groups.

On January 17, 2026, activist Oksana Romanenko Ozdemir posted footage of the animal appearing visibly drained while being used as a prop for tourist photographs in the city’s central square.

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The video, which urged tourists to stop paying for animal suffering, triggered a rapid response that led to Halima’s relocation to a sanctuary. In a heartwarming turn of events, the pony gave birth to a healthy foal shortly after her rescue.

Following the incident, Romanenko launched a petition calling on Moroccan authorities to ban the commercial use of animals for photography and rides, advocating for stricter protective laws and increased inspections in public squares.

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