Morocco/Earthquake: OPEC Fund donates $500,000 to support relief efforts
The OPEC Fund for International Development has announced a $500,000 grant to support Morocco’s humanitarian relief efforts following the devastating earthquake that struck Morocco on September 8, 2023.
The 7.2-magnitue earthquake has caused serious material damage and claimed nearly 3,000 lives, making it the deadliest quake to hit the North African Kingdom in decades.
In its press release issued Friday, the OPEC Fund says its emergency aid will help the country to address critical needs including the provision of food, safe water, and shelter, as well as protection and prevention measures as part of the overall relief operation.
The grant will be channelled through the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and will provide vital assistance to the Moroccan Red Crescent Society (MRCS).
OPEC Fund Director-General Dr. Abdulhamid Alkhalifa said: “We stand in solidarity with the people of Morocco, who have endured devastating losses as a result of this massive earthquake. In collaboration with the international community, we hope our immediate assistance can meet the urgent needs of those affected and help their recovery.”
The grant is intended to assist the most vulnerable segments of the population such as families, children, people with disabilities and the elderly.
The OPEC Fund works in cooperation with partner developing countries and the international development community to stimulate economic growth and social progress in low- and middle-income countries around the world.
The OPEC Fund was established in 1976. It focuses on financing projects that meet essential needs, such as food, energy, infrastructure, clean water and sanitation, healthcare, and education.
