Morocco Earthquake Humanitarian Assistance Overview – January 2025
A 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck central Morocco on September 8, 2023, resulting in nearly 3,000 deaths and 500,000 displacements. In response, USAID and IFRC have provided significant humanitarian assistance, including shelter, WASH services, and emergency supplies. Despite these efforts, many families still face challenges in recovery, necessitating continued support. The Moroccan Red Crescent Society also contributed to relief efforts, providing critical assistance to affected individuals.
On September 8, 2023, a magnitude 6.8 earthquake struck central Morocco, resulting in 2,946 fatalities and nearly 5,700 injuries, with significant impacts observed in the Marrakech-Safi Region’s Al Haouz Province and the Souss-Massa Region’s Taroudant Province. The disaster displaced over 500,000 individuals, damaging nearly 60,000 homes within a week, according to reports from the Government of Morocco and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).
In 2024, USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (USAID/BHA) reinforced earthquake response efforts, addressing ongoing needs in the Al Haouz, Chichaoua, and Taroudant provinces. Activities included providing first aid in shelters and distributing relief goods, as many survivors remained in makeshift accommodations vulnerable to the elements. As of September 2024, the government had not yet fully addressed shelter deficiencies, and emergency support was still critical.
USAID/BHA allocated over $970,000 for humanitarian assistance in fiscal years 2023 and 2024, focusing on emergency shelter and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) efforts in the most affected communities. IFRC utilized these funds to supply immediate shelter assistance, distribute essential materials for repairs, and enhance flood protection features. Nonetheless, many families faced hurdles in initiating reconstruction efforts due to high costs and inadequate technical guidance.
To mitigate medium-term housing needs, IFRC commenced the installation of Transitional Shelter Units (TSUs), completing 169 units in key areas by June 2024. Outreach efforts reached approximately 23,200 individuals with hygiene kits and other commodities. Furthermore, 4,041 dignity kits were distributed to meet the specific needs of women and girls impacted by the disaster.
WASH initiatives included constructing essential water infrastructure such as latrines and showers, in addition to educating communities on proper facility utilization. Concurrently, the Moroccan Red Crescent Society (MRCS) also contributed significant support through evacuations, medical transportation, and the distribution of emergency supplies to those affected.
MRCS provided critical supplies, including blankets and hygiene kits, while managing needs such as dignified burials and first aid. This comprehensive support highlights ongoing humanitarian efforts aimed at recovery and resilience in the earthquake-impacted regions of Morocco.
The earthquake on September 8, 2023, caused extensive devastation in central Morocco, leading to numerous casualties, injuries, and widespread displacement. The response efforts have involved multiple organizations, including USAID and IFRC, which aimed to address the ongoing humanitarian needs as communities struggle with temporary shelters and the effects of the disaster. The assistance provided has focused on immediate relief and medium to long-term recovery strategies for affected populations.
In conclusion, the extensive humanitarian response following the September 2023 earthquake in Morocco has involved significant collaboration among various agencies and organizations. The continuing efforts to provide essential shelter, sanitation, and relief supplies highlight the challenges faced by the affected communities. The situation remains critical, with ongoing support necessary to ensure recovery and resilience for the displaced population.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
