Morocco

On September 8, 2023, the North African state of Morocco was hit by an earthquake: it was the worst in the region in more than 100 years.

Before the disaster: developing stable healthcare

Over the past decades, Morocco has made significant progress in building a more stable healthcare system. Both infant mortality rates and life expectancy have improved considerably. Nevertheless, major disparities remain between urban and rural areas, as well as between wealthier and poorer population groups.

Particularly in rural regions, waterborne diseases continue to pose a risk where access to adequate sanitation is limited. In addition, climate change and increased mobility are raising the risk of the introduction of vector‑borne diseases such as dengue fever, even though these are not currently endemic.

Injuries, homelessness and hunger: the earthquake of the century

In September 2023, a powerful earthquake struck the High Atlas Mountains and the region around Marrakesh. Nearly 3,000 people lost their lives, more than 5,600 were injured, and tens of thousands were left homeless. Remote mountain villages in particular were almost completely destroyed. Even years later, the livelihoods of many people in the affected regions have not yet been fully restored.

In numbers: The earthquake in Morocco in 2023

  • At least 300,000 Moroccans directly affected
  • Around 3,000 people lost their lives, more than 5,600 injured
  • Nearly 60,000 houses destroyed; in some mountain villages, almost 90% of homes were no longer habitable
  • The livelihoods of many people in the rural mountain regions are still destroyed

Basic medical care, accommodation and aid packages

Immediately after the disaster struck, action medeor sent a team to the affected region to assess the needs and initiate emergency relief measures. During the emergency relief phase between October 2023 and March 2024, action medeor, together with its partners IBC and the local organization Al Amal Volunteers' Association, concentrated on distributing humanitarian aid supplies: 300 winterized tents were distributed as well as aid packages containing hygiene articles, household goods, water, food and materials for treating wounds. In addition, blankets and warm clothing were procured and washing and sanitary facilities were repaired or made available.

action medeor remains active on the ground and continues to provide humanitarian aid, as there is a considerable need for long-term support.

"The affected areas are still struggling with the after-effects of the earthquake, such as the damaged infrastructure. Our current plans are primarily focused on providing aid to support daily life in the destroyed mountain villages."

Axel Dechamps
Humanitarian emergency and relief aid action medeor

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