In the wake of a catastrophic 6.8 magnitude earthquake in September 2023 that devastated parts of Morocco, midwives from AMSF, supported by ICM, provided critical medical care and psychological support to affected communities. They operated medical caravans to reach those in need, offering essential services, distributing care packages, and coordinating referrals for advanced care. As preparations for future emergencies get underway, these midwives are being trained to enhance their effectiveness in crisis situations.
In September 2023, a catastrophic earthquake with a magnitude of 6.8 struck Morocco, inflicting severe damage primarily on rural communities in the Atlas Mountains. This disaster resulted in the loss of over 2,900 lives and left more than 5,500 individuals injured. Among those most impacted were pregnant women, who faced heightened health risks amidst the ensuing chaos. In response to this crisis, midwives from the Association Marocaine des Sages-Femmes (AMSF), with the support of the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM), engaged in providing essential care and assistance to affected communities. With financial backing from Direct Relief, AMSF launched five medical caravans across the earthquake-impacted regions, including Saidate, Tighdouine, Zerkten, Onein, and Timzdagiouine. A sixth caravan, developed in collaboration with ICM, targeted Ouirgane in the Province of Al Haouz, which was particularly in need of support. On January 13, 2024, a multi-disciplinary team comprising AMSF midwives, doctors, and nurses established a mobile clinic in Ouirgane. Within a single day, they attended to 169 patients, providing prenatal care, general medical consultations, and screenings for conditions such as HIV, diabetes, and hypertension. Furthermore, they conducted ultrasounds for fetal health assessments and organized educational workshops on topics including family planning, nutrition, and breastfeeding. In their commitment to support the affected populations, the team distributed 140 dignity kits, 10 newborn kits, and winter clothing to vulnerable families. For patients requiring more intensive care, midwives facilitated referrals to higher-level health facilities like Marrakech University Hospital, ensuring ongoing healthcare access. Moreover, midwives played a crucial role in offering psychological support, conducting both individual and group counseling sessions for women grappling with trauma and loss. They also provided crucial assistance to women who had experienced gender-based violence, highlighting the comprehensive and compassionate services midwives render in their communities. Navigating access to these remote areas posed significant challenges, as many health centers suffered damage or were difficult to reach due to the earthquake’s aftermath. Nevertheless, the commitment and established local networks of the AMSF midwives enabled them to deliver essential care to the communities in greatest need. As Morocco embarks on the journey of rebuilding, AMSF and ICM are actively planning for future crises. AMSF has requested additional training for its members, to which ICM has responded by developing the “Ready to Respond: A Midwife’s Guide to Humanitarian Action” program. This initiative aims to equip midwives with the skills necessary for effective and rapid response in emergency settings, encompassing topics from disaster management to promoting respectful maternity care. In May 2024, ICM conducted a three-day Train the Trainer (ToT) program in Rabat, during which AMSF midwives acquired skills for needs assessments during crises, managing newborn care in emergency contexts, and advocating for the inclusion of midwives in national emergency response frameworks. This training enhances midwives’ abilities to safeguard community health and champion improved health systems in anticipation of future disasters. Thus, the collaboration among Direct Relief, ICM, and AMSF exemplifies the critical leadership role midwives can assume during crises. As the earthquake-stricken communities gradually recover, the unwavering commitment of these midwives remains a beacon of hope and stability in rebuilding efforts.
In September 2023, Morocco experienced a significant earthquake that primarily affected rural communities in the Atlas Mountains. The disaster highlighted the crucial role of midwives in crisis situations, particularly in providing health services to vulnerable populations such as pregnant women who suffered both the trauma of loss and additional health risks. The partnership between local midwives and international organizations underscores the importance of coordinated humanitarian response efforts in the aftermath of natural disasters.
The devastation caused by the September 2023 earthquake in Morocco necessitated a robust response from health care providers, particularly midwives. The actions taken by AMSF, with support from ICM and Direct Relief, showcased the essential role of midwives not only in delivering medical care but also in providing psychological support and community engagement during crises. As they prepare for future emergencies through enhanced training and collaboration, midwives will be well-equipped to protect and promote the health of their communities in times of need.
Original Source: internationalmidwives.org
