Morocco has commenced the distribution of a monthly stipend amounting to 2,500 dirhams, equivalent to $250, to families impacted by last month’s devastating floods and earthquake. The government had previously committed to providing compensation to the affected families from October 6 to 16. Families not receiving the stipend have the option to submit petitions to the relevant regional committees for review.
The earthquake, with a magnitude of 7, affected around 2.8 million people and resulted in the destruction of thousands of villages and homes. While the city of Marrakesh experienced less severe damage, the High Atlas mountains, where most of the quake’s 3,000 victims perished, witnessed extensive destruction, leaving villagers to reside in tents.
In addition to the monthly stipend, authorities have pledged assistance for rebuilding homes that collapsed during the earthquake. The Moroccan Royal Court announced that direct financial aid of 140,000 dirhams (approximately $14,000) will be provided for completely collapsed buildings, while partially collapsed houses will receive 80,000 dirhams (around $8,000).
Last week, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) approved a $1.32 billion, 18-month loan from its new Resilience and Sustainability Facility to support Morocco in enhancing its resilience to climate-related disasters. The financial assistance is part of broader efforts to aid the country in recovering from the recent earthquake and floods.
