Earthquake

Morocco To Spend $11.7 Billion On Post-Earthquake Reconstruction Plan

Published

1 year ago

Sep 21, 2023.

Eko Hot Blog reports that Morocco is set to embark on a substantial post-earthquake reconstruction plan, allocating a significant budget of $11.7 billion for the next five years.

This initiative comes in the wake of a devastating 6.8 magnitude earthquake that struck on September 8, resulting in the tragic loss of more than 2,900 lives, with the High Atlas mountains region being the most severely affected.

The ambitious five-year plan is designed to benefit approximately 4.2 million people residing in the hardest-hit provinces, including Al Haouz, Chichaoua, Taroudant, Marrakesh, Ouarzazate, and Azizlal. King Mohammed VI convened with government and military officials to discuss the plan’s details, highlighting the importance of rehousing and upgrading the affected regions’ infrastructure.

These efforts are intended to foster social and economic development in the earthquake-stricken areas.

Financing for the reconstruction plan will be drawn from multiple sources, including the government’s budget, international aid, and a dedicated fund established in response to the earthquake.

To date, this fund has garnered approximately $700 million in contributions from various sources.

Furthermore, the program incorporates the establishment of essential reserves hubs in each region, stocked with tents, blankets, beds, medicines, and food provisions.

These reserves will facilitate rapid response to future natural disasters, ensuring the affected communities receive critical assistance promptly.

It’s important to note that the regions impacted by the earthquake are among Morocco’s most impoverished areas, characterized by their remoteness, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to public services.

The reconstruction plan aims to address these challenges and contribute to the recovery and resilience of the affected communities.