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Rabat – Today marks the year anniversary of the Al Haouz earthquake, and Morocco’s tourism sector has demonstrated a slow but sturdy recovery.
In a recent Le Figaro article, the outlet scrutinized the progress and growth experienced in Al Haouz following the devastating earthquake on September 8, 2023.
The 6.8 magnitude quake struck the remote mountainous region approximately 300 kilometers south of the capital, Rabat, resulting in nearly 3,000 deaths and causing widespread destruction of around 60,000 homes.
Morocco’s tourism revives amidst rebuilding efforts
In a proactive effort to rejuvenate tourism in the region, Jean-Pierre Champert, founder of Sport Travel, a Moroccan trekking agency, observed that locals are delighted to see travelers coming back.
“We decided to resume our tours as soon as possible, even in areas still affected by the earthquake, while keeping travelers informed,” Champert said.
He added that in areas such as Ijoukak and Amizmiz, “under their tents, villagers are welcoming travelers as they always have. There’s genuine perseverance. Their joy at seeing tourists return provides them with extra motivation to rebuild.”
Alexandre Leymarie, Managing Director of Beldi Country Club (Marrakech and High Atlas), believes the earthquake has bolstered Morocco’s reputation for hospitality and generosity.
He commended the “exceptional speed” of Moroccan authorities’ response, highlighting their prompt actions to assist in rebuilding the entire quake stricken area as well as to assist hotels with essential repairs.
At Kasbah Beldi, one of his establishments in the quake-hit Amizmiz region, Leymarie witnessed a month-long influx of trucks carrying mattresses and tents, translating to Morocco’s strong sense of solidarity.
“This has strengthened the image of a dynamic Morocco facing adversity and solidified the country’s reputation for hospitality and generosity,” he added.
Meanwhile, Kenza Fenjiro, Associate Director of Domaine La Roseraie in Ouirgane, reported that her High Atlas property also swiftly resumed welcoming travelers.
“When you visit a rebuilding area, the warmth of the people is palpable. Being welcomed by a family that has lost everything and sharing traditional bread and tea truly embodies the essence of travel. The High Atlas remains stunning!” she exclaimed.
Recovery hurdles continue in earthquake-affected areas
However, the recovery has not been without its challenges. According to a report by Alarabiya News today, villagers in Talat N’Yaaqoub, near the earthquake’s epicenter, took to the streets last month to demand quicker aid, adherence to proper building methods, and improved medical facilities.
Mohamed Belhassen, a local representative from Amizmiz, criticized the “dismal failure” of reconstruction efforts, stressing that many victims are still living in tents or have been forced to relocate from their villages.
The situation remains equally challenging in the Taroudant region, about 60 kilometers from Agadir. Siham Azeroual, founder of an NGO assisting quake survivors, described reconstruction as “proceeding very slowly” and criticized the bureaucratic hurdles faced by those affected.
So far, nearly 58,000 people have received the first of four installments of state aid, totaling up to 140,000 dirhams ($14,500). However, only 939 families have received the final payment.
Authorities have also provided monthly grants of 2,500 dirhams ($260) to over 63,800 affected families. Additionally, an $11 billion aid program over five years has been launched to support reconstruction and development efforts.
