In a significant move to provide solace and assistance to the earthquake-stricken regions, the government has announced the launch of a rebuilding support program. This decision was unveiled during the sixth inter-ministerial committee meeting, which is tasked with overseeing the general reconstruction and rehabilitation of the areas affected by the Al-Hawz earthquake. The gathering was held on Wednesday and was presided over by Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch in Rabat.
Starting from the 1st of November, families with homes that have either partially or completely collapsed due to the earthquake can commence the process of availing the initial tranche of the rebuilding aid. As stipulated, the first installment is set at 20,000 dirhams. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that the victims of the disaster are not left to fend for themselves.
Furthermore, for families wishing to undertake the rebuilding process, they are encouraged to submit their related documents to their respective local councils from the beginning of November. These families will receive technical guidance, including standardized designs which consider the unique characteristics and standards of the affected region.
On a related note, during the meeting, an overview of the commencement of financial aid disbursement for affected families was discussed. A monthly aid of 2,500 dirhams for a year has been designated for families whose homes suffered partial or complete damage. The regional committees are actively assessing requests from families who have not yet received the initial aid installment.
Immediate relief measures, such as the provision of tents and essential supplies, have been executed swiftly. Local authorities have embarked on distributing new tents to needy families. For the agricultural sector, which is the lifeblood of many local economies, a barley distribution process for the farmers in the earthquake-affected regions will commence on the 25th of October. Additionally, plans are in place to collaborate with the National Association of Sheep and Goat Breeders to restructure the national livestock herd. Furthermore, the restoration of hydro-agricultural facilities in small and medium irrigation circles is underway.
The session also delved into the progress of architectural and technical studies initiated for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of schools, healthcare centers, mosques, and historical landmarks. Efforts to clear debris from roads and the status of newly opened rural paths were also examined.
In his concluding remarks, the Prime Minister lauded the tireless efforts of the concerned government sectors involved in the reconstruction of the earthquake-hit provinces. He pointed out that the resilience and efficacy of Morocco, led by the King, received international recognition during the annual meetings of the IMF and the World Bank. The commendations highlighted Marrakech’s and Morocco’s overall capacity for rapid recovery and their prowess in managing various crises
