Rabat – Samantha Power, Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), will travel to Morocco between May 19 and 22 for an official visit.
The visit will aim to reaffirm the enduring bond between the US and “one of its oldest allies,” Morocco, said USAID in a press release.
During her visit, Power is set to engage with several stakeholders, including government officials, partner organizations, youth representatives, and local communities.
As part of her agenda, Power will highlight the role of locally-led development in fostering sustainable progress and meaningful advancements. A key focus of the trip will be showcasing the collaborative efforts between USAID and local organizations within Morocco to support these efforts.
She will highlight how these partnerships are instrumental in driving forward local initiatives that empower communities and facilitate their self-sufficiency.
In addition, Power will witness firsthand the resilience of Moroccan communities in the aftermath of the Al Haouz earthquake that hit central Morocco in September 2023.
She will visit the affected areas to observe the ongoing recovery efforts facilitated by USAID programs.
Earlier this year, USAID pledged $12.6 million to support Morocco’s post-earthquake reconstruction efforts after the devastating earthquake.
Initially, USAID contributed about $1 million for early relief efforts and collaborated with the Moroccan Red Crescent to provide urgent assistance, including kitchenware, sleeping bags, hygiene kits, blankets, and mattresses to affected communities.
USAID’s support also includes partnering with UNICEF Morocco for a 30-month program to deliver necessary services and distribute cash assistance to impacted households.
In partnership with GiveDirectly and Morocco’s National Initiative for Human Development, the agency also provided direct cash support for 180 cooperatives whose livelihoods were affected by the earthquake.
In addition, it funded at least eight local organizations in the Marrakech-Safi region in collaboration with Deloitte for on-the-ground recovery support.
