Morocco's Resolute Commitment: MAD 32.7 Million Allocated for Al Haouz Earthquake Socio-Psychological Aid

In a determined response to the recent catastrophic earthquake in Morocco, which claimed the lives of nearly 3,000 people and left a trail of devastation, the Moroccan government has allocated a significant MAD 32.7 million to provide crucial socio-psychological assistance to 46,000 affected families. The announcement of this heartfelt initiative was made by the esteemed Minister of Solidarity, Social Integration, and Family, Aawatif Hayar.

Addressing the Social Sectors Commission at the House of Representatives in Rabat, Minister Hayar outlined the comprehensive plan initiated by her department to alleviate the profound suffering caused by the September earthquake. Urgency was prioritized as 400 dedicated social workers and psychologists were swiftly deployed to offer unwavering support to the traumatized victims.

To ensure an effective emergency response, the government has established 17 specialized social assistance units in the affected areas, accompanied by an additional 17 safe spaces specifically designed for children. In response to a meticulous assessment of the 242 social institutions ravaged by the earthquake, a total of 3,100 tents have been promptly supplied to address the immediate shelter needs of those affected.

Minister Hayar proudly declared that the ministry's social division has already provided social assistance or in-kind services to 89 municipalities, covering an impressive 82% of the worst-affected regions. This comprehensive aid strategy has proven to be an instrumental lifeline for the affected communities.

Expanding on the ambitious 2023 emergency intervention program, Minister Hayar unveiled 36 groundbreaking projects designed to provide much-needed support to affected families. With a budget surpassing MAD 8 million dirhams, these new centers will symbolize hope and resilience, embodying the government's unwavering commitment to rebuilding shattered lives. The ministry has also mobilized an abundance of human resources dedicated to delivering essential social and psychological assistance, complemented by initiatives to revitalize and rehabilitate the earthquake-ravaged areas.

Looking ahead to the 2024-2025 action plan for these regions, Minister Hayar emphasized the paramount importance of rehabilitating 180 social protection centers, a monumental endeavor requiring an approximate budget of MAD 154 million. The plan also encompasses comprehensive operations for aid and relief, the empowering "Jisr" program, and steadfast support for the elderly and individuals with disabilities.

During the parliamentary meeting, representatives from diverse factions commended the government's concerted efforts in implementing robust social support programs that have profoundly impacted vulnerable populations. However, they passionately urged the government to redouble its efforts, particularly in providing essential psychological assistance to those affected by the earthquake, ensuring access to high-quality healthcare, and fostering the economic and social empowerment of women and individuals with disabilities.

The representatives steadfastly emphasized the dire need for cohesive collaboration across government departments and extolled the efficacy of the emergency interventions already in place within the affected areas. Furthermore, they fervently called for the mobilization of both human and logistical resources, advocating for innovative initiatives that actively involve civil society associations, thereby bolstering their capacity to provide crucial social protection.

The recent earthquake, the most devastating to strike Morocco in decades, has left an indelible mark on central Morocco, causing widespread destruction. Tragically, the earthquake resulted in the loss of nearly 3,000 lives and inflicted injuries upon thousands of others.