Morocco has unveiled a comprehensive plan to allocate $11.7 billion towards a five-year post-earthquake reconstruction program, announced by the Royal Palace on Wednesday. This initiative is aimed at aiding the recovery of the regions most severely impacted by the recent devastating earthquake, which struck on September 8, claiming the lives of approximately 3,000 people and injuring 5,000.
The reconstruction effort will specifically target 4.2 million individuals residing in the hardest-hit provinces, where tens of thousands of structures have either been damaged or completely destroyed. Early estimates suggest that at least one million people have been directly affected by the earthquake’s aftermath.
The announcement coincides with news that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank intend to convene a meeting in Marrakesh on October 9, initially scheduled before the disaster but now refocused on discussions pertaining to reconstruction endeavors.
IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, World Bank President Ajay Banga, and Moroccan Economy Minister Nadia Alaoui have expressed their commitment to adapt the meeting’s agenda “to the circumstances” arising from the disaster.
Last week, King Mohammed VI of Morocco underscored the nation’s intention to undertake the reconstruction process with a deep appreciation for the region’s cultural heritage and respect for its unique architectural characteristics.
Wednesday’s cabinet “working session” featured deliberations on the critical aspects of rebuilding homes, restoring infrastructure, and facilitating the relocation of affected individuals. Furthermore, the session addressed the imperative of enhancing the economic conditions in the affected areas. As part of these efforts, King Mohammed VI ordered the establishment of reserve supplies, including tents, blankets, beds, medicine, and food, in each of the affected regions.
In response to the immediate needs of affected households, the royal palace previously announced that 50,000 houses had sustained damage. Authorities pledged to provide shelter and financial assistance of $3,000 to those affected. Additionally, reconstruction aid has been committed, with $13,600 earmarked for collapsed homes and $7,800 for those that suffered damage.
In the aftermath of the 6.8-magnitude earthquake, the king has taken a hands-on approach to coordinating relief efforts. He chaired two emergency response meetings with officials in Rabat, visited a hospital in Marrakesh, and personally donated blood to support the appeals for donors. This earthquake marked the deadliest natural disaster in Morocco since 1960, prompting a swift and comprehensive response from the nation.
