The Breeds of Origin Conservancy, a non-profit organisation, has nominated Joseph Muscat for a posthumous Ġieħ ir-Repubblika award, honouring him as a national treasure.
Muscat, considered one of the last custodians of the critically endangered Maltese indigenous goat, was deeply respected for his dedication to preserving Malta’s rural heritage.
Darryl Grech, Founder of the Conservancy, described Muscat as an icon of Maltese rural life, admired for his commitment to livestock herding and farming until his passing last Sunday.
Muscat embodied traditional values, maintaining a lifelong devotion to agriculture despite modern changes. His efforts helped preserve the legacy of indigenous livestock and rural traditions in Malta.
Muscat was also a key figure in organising livestock shows, such as Imnarja, and played a central role in launching the Wirja Agrarja in his hometown of Dingli.
His dedication to educating future generations about Malta’s agricultural heritage, especially indigenous goats and sheep, made him a beloved figure within the community. Muscat’s passing marks the loss of a vital link to Malta’s agricultural past.
Grech emphasised that the award would be a small recognition of Muscat’s significant contributions to the agricultural sector and his deep commitment to Malta’s cultural and rural identity.
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