Rabat – The United States, through the US Agency for International Development (USAID), has pledged $12.6 million to support Morocco’s extensive earthquake recovery efforts that followed the devastating Al Haouz earthquake on September 8, 2023.
The earthquake claimed the lives of over 2,960 people and left a trail of destruction, flattening close to 60,000 homes. In the wake of the earthquake, Morocco’s King Mohammed VI launched a massive five-year plan for the “integrated reconstruction and general upgrading of the affected regions.”
The plan focuses on a wide range of activities, including the re-establishment and provision of vital social services.
In a statement, US Ambassador Puneet Talwar expressed the unwavering commitment of the nation in supporting Morocco’s response to the Al Haouz earthquake, emphasizing the collaboration between the two nations in rebuilding livelihoods.
“The United States is proud to stand in partnership with our oldest friend during this process, supporting critical socio-economic services that align with the Kingdom’s reconstruction plan and help people and communities recover,” the US ambassador said.
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USAID initially contributed approximately $1 million to early relief efforts and worked closely with the Moroccan Red Crescent to provide urgent assistance, providing kitchenware, sleeping bags, hygiene kits, blankets, mattresses, and other essential items to affected communities.
USAID Morocco has equally collaborated with various partners across government, civil society, and the private sector to identify and implement critical interventions that align with Morocco’s reconstruction plan.
Some of the key initiatives USAID launched in the wake of the earthquake include a partnership with UNICEF Maroc. This first initiative comprises a 30-month program working with central, regional, and local authorities as well as communities to identify and deliver necessary services to households impacted by the earthquake. The program also includes the distribution of cash assistance from the Moroccan government.
The second initiative covers direct cash support for 180 cooperatives whose livelihoods were compromised by the earthquake, in partnership with GiveDirectly and in collaboration with the National Initiative for Human Development.
In addition, the US organization launched a funding project for at least eight local organizations in the Marrakech-Safi region. The project was carried out in partnership with consulting firm Deloitte to provide on-the-ground recovery support.
USAID also launched a socio-economic recovery support program, called Azilal Province Initiatives, which covers shelter, agriculture, and other infrastructure activities in the Azilal province, in partnership with non-profit FHI360.
USAID’s recent pledge demonstrates its commitment to working alongside Morocco to support reconstruction and development efforts. In the statement, the US association says that it “continues to explore additional opportunities and partnerships that strengthen the resilience of Moroccan communities.”
