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Strengthening Bonds: USAID Chief Samantha Power's Visit to Morocco
Samantha Power, the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), is set to embark on an official visit to Morocco from May 19 to 22. This visit aims to fortify the long-standing partnership between the United States and Morocco, one of the oldest U.S. allies.
During her visit, Power will engage with a diverse array of stakeholders, including government officials, partner organizations, youth representatives, and local communities. Her agenda will highlight the crucial role of locally-led development initiatives in fostering sustainable progress and meaningful advancements.
A cornerstone of Power's visit will be to spotlight the collaborative efforts between USAID and local organizations within Morocco. These partnerships drive grassroots initiatives that empower communities and facilitate their self-sufficiency. By witnessing these endeavors firsthand, Power will underscore the agency's commitment to supporting locally-driven solutions that address the unique challenges and aspirations of Moroccan communities.
Power's itinerary will also focus on the resilience of Moroccan communities following the devastating Al Haouz earthquake that struck central Morocco in September 2023. She will visit the affected areas to observe the ongoing recovery efforts facilitated by USAID programs, further solidifying the agency's unwavering support in times of crisis.
In the aftermath of the catastrophic earthquake, USAID swiftly mobilized resources, pledging $12.6 million to support Morocco's post-earthquake reconstruction efforts. Initially, the agency contributed approximately $1 million for early relief efforts and collaborated with the Moroccan Red Crescent to provide urgently needed assistance, including kitchenware, sleeping bags, hygiene kits, blankets, and mattresses to affected communities.
USAID's comprehensive support extends beyond immediate relief to encompass long-term recovery initiatives. In partnership with UNICEF Morocco, the agency has launched a 30-month program to deliver essential services and distribute cash assistance to impacted households. Additionally, in collaboration with GiveDirectly and Morocco's National Initiative for Human Development, USAID has provided direct cash support to 180 cooperatives whose livelihoods were adversely affected by the earthquake's aftermath.
Furthermore, USAID has funded at least eight local organizations in the Marrakech-Safi region, in collaboration with Deloitte, to bolster on-the-ground recovery support efforts. This multifaceted approach underscores the agency's commitment to empowering local communities and fostering sustainable development.
Samantha Power's diplomatic visit to Morocco symbolizes the enduring bonds between the United States and one of its oldest allies. Through her engagement with stakeholders and firsthand observations of USAID's impactful programs, Power's visit promises to strengthen the bilateral partnership and pave the way for continued collaboration in addressing shared challenges and fostering prosperity for all.