Rabat – Morocco has dedicated a budget of MAD 32.7 million to provide socio-psychological assistance to 46,000 families affected by the Al Haouz earthquake, according to the Minister of Solidarity, Social Integration, and Family Aawatif Hayar.
Addressing the Social Sectors Commission at the House of Representatives in Rabat, Hayar detailed the comprehensive response initiated by her department in the wake of the devastating earthquake that struck central Morocco in September.
This included the mobilization of 400 social workers and psychologists for urgent intervention in support of earthquake victims.
As part of the 2023 emergency intervention program, 17 social assistance units have been established in affected areas. In addition, 17 spaces for children have been created, and 3,100 tents supplied, following the assessment of 242 social institutions damaged by the earthquake.
Minister noted that 89 municipalities, accounting for 82% of the most severely affected areas, have received social assistance or in-kind services from the ministry’s social division.
Expanding on the 2023 emergency intervention program, the minister outlined the establishment of new centers to aid affected families, totaling 36 projects with a budget exceeding MAD 8 million dirhams.
The ministry mobilized human resources dedicated to social and psychological assistance, alongside initiatives for upgrading and rehabilitating areas impacted by the earthquake.
Looking ahead to the 2024-2025 action plan in these regions, Hayar emphasized a focus on rehabilitating 180 social protection centers, with a budget of approximately MAD 154 million.
The plan also includes operations for aid and relief, the “Jisr” program for empowerment and leadership, and support for elderly people and individuals with disabilities.
During the parliamentary meeting, representatives from various groups commended government’s efforts in implementing social support programs benefiting vulnerable populations.
However, parliamentary representatives urged the government to intensify efforts, particularly in providing necessary psychological assistance to those affected by the earthquake, ensuring quality healthcare, and fostering the economic and social empowerment of women and people with disabilities.
They emphasized the need for coordinated efforts across government departments and praised the effectiveness of emergency interventions in affected areas.
In addition, the representatives called for the mobilization of human and logistical resources, advocating for innovative initiatives, especially involving civil society associations, to enhance their capabilities in social protection.
The tragic earthquake, the strongest to hit Morocco in decades, caused massive destruction in central Morocco. The disaster claimed the lives of nearly 3,000 people and injured thousands of others.
