The Moroccan Red Crescent has provided relief to 41,404 individuals and 10,112 households across 261 villages in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake that hit several provinces on September 8, 2023.
The figures were presented on Thursday in Marrakech during a meeting dedicated to reviewing the 18-month response by the Moroccan Red Crescent (MRC) and its partners to alleviate the suffering of those affected by the earthquake.
The 18-month humanitarian response targeted the four hardest-hit provinces: Al Haouz (19,266 individuals in 106 villages), Chichaoua (9,421 individuals in 93 villages), Taroudant (8,075 individuals in 45 villages), and Azilal (4,643 individuals in 17 villages).
MRC’s comprehensive intervention strategy encompassed multiple critical areas. In the immediate aftermath, the organization conducted 50,000 emergency operations during the first three months, ultimately reaching 60,000 people with first aid services and training more than 17 schools on emergency response techniques.
The aid distribution included 6,034 food baskets serving nearly 25,000 beneficiaries, while shelter assistance reached 22,456 people. The MRC deployed 1,756 tents and 877 temporary shelter units, with 450 dedicated to supporting education and seven for healthcare services. Additionally, 8,233 non-food item kits containing essentials like blankets and kitchen supplies were distributed.
Water, hygiene, and sanitation efforts were equally substantial, with 674 infrastructure units rehabilitated or installed, 128 awareness sessions conducted, and nearly 55,000 hygiene kits distributed. The organization also implemented three unconditional cash assistance projects with a total budget of 10.2 million dirhams ($1 million), including support for 1,546 households during a cold wave in Chichaoua.
Mental health initiatives proved effective, with 86% of the 541 recipients reporting improved well-being following psychosocial support and stress management sessions.
At the review meeting, MRC Vice President Moulay Hafid Alaoui highlighted the importance of partner support and the organization’s integrated approach, which ensured quality interventions across the affected regions.
The MRC, a member of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, maintains a nationwide network of more than 40,000 volunteers.
