In September 2023, a catastrophic earthquake in central Morocco caused numerous fatalities and injuries, displacing over 500,000 individuals. In 2024, USAID/BHA and partners continued relief efforts, providing vital shelter and WASH services. Despite challenges in rebuilding and repair, significant support has been directed towards affected communities to enhance their resilience and recovery.
On September 8, 2023, a significant earthquake of magnitude 6.8 struck central Morocco, resulting in the tragic loss of 2,946 lives and nearly 5,700 injuries. The hardest-hit regions included Al Haouz and Taroudant provinces, leading to the displacement of over 500,000 individuals and substantial damage to around 60,000 homes within a week. Organizations such as the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) reported these findings, highlighting the extensive humanitarian crisis that ensued.
In 2024, USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (USAID/BHA) continued its vital support for ongoing relief efforts in the earthquake-affected areas, focusing on providing first aid, distributing essential supplies, and maintaining water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services. Many survivors were forced into temporary shelters, remaining vulnerable to the climate, while organizations worked to distribute necessary shelter materials and resources as of September 2024.
USAID/BHA collaborated closely with the Government of Morocco, contributing over $970,000 to facilitate emergency shelter and WASH initiatives in the most impacted communities. Under this support, the IFRC provided critical shelter assistance, distributing materials for immediate repairs and enhancing infrastructure for flood protection and winterization efforts. Nonetheless, many families struggled to repair their homes, leading to the installation of Transitional Shelter Units (TSUs) as an interim solution.
As of June 2024, the IFRC managed to assist nearly 23,200 individuals in Marrakech-Safi, providing essential relief items, including hygiene kits and cooking supplies. In addition, they constructed necessary water infrastructure, offering educational resources on effective WASH usage and emergency measures, significantly enhancing community resilience against further crises.
Furthermore, the Moroccan Red Crescent Society (MRCS) played a crucial role in disaster response by evacuating victims, supporting medical transport, and addressing burial needs with dignity. They distributed vital emergency supplies, including blankets and hygiene kits, aiding those affected by the earthquake and ensuring the health and safety of the communities in distress.
On September 8, 2023, Morocco experienced a devastating earthquake, causing widespread casualties and damage. In its aftermath, various national and international agencies mobilized to provide humanitarian assistance, addressing critical needs such as shelter, medical aid, and WASH services. The response efforts reflect ongoing challenges in recovery and rebuilding in the affected regions, particularly as many displaced individuals remain vulnerable to environmental conditions. This report summarizes continued aid efforts by organizations like USAID/BHA and IFRC in 2024, as they strive to restore normalcy to the affected communities.
To summarize, the earthquake that struck Morocco in September 2023 caused significant humanitarian challenges, prompting an extensive response from both local and international organizations. USAID/BHA has made substantial contributions to emergency relief, while partners like IFRC and MRCS have delivered crucial support to vulnerable populations. Although progress has been made, ongoing efforts to address shelter needs, improve infrastructure, and provide essential services are still required to aid in full recovery.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
