King Mohammed VI has urged the Moroccan government to extend financial aid for families affected by the Al-Haouz earthquake, with additional support aimed at housing reconstruction and agricultural revitalization. A new subsidy plan allocates funds based on the extent of damage, highlighting the monarchy’s commitment to the impacted communities.
His Majesty King Mohammed VI has called upon the Moroccan government to prolong the financial assistance efforts for the victims of the Al-Haouz earthquake, which struck on September 8 of last year, claiming the lives of 2,946 individuals. Under the royal directive, the Moroccan government has decided to further extend economic support to approximately 5,000 families whose homes were devastated by the calamity. The Prime Minister, Aziz Akhannouch, has communicated this initiative through an official statement, emphasizing the administration’s responsibility to ensure that the reconstruction of the affected houses is fully realized. The extension of aid is aimed at providing these families with adequate resources to restore their homes effectively. Following the conclusion of the initial 12-month aid plan, which allocated 2,500 dirhams monthly to families whose residences suffered complete or partial destruction, a subsequent subsidy program has been initiated with a significantly increased budget of 2.5 billion dirhams. During the press conference, Akhannouch detailed that families residing in partially damaged homes would receive 80,000 dirhams, while those whose homes have been entirely demolished would benefit from 140,000 dirhams, as per the royal edict. Additionally, the ministers overseeing economy and finance, internal affairs, equipment, and agriculture have convened to delineate the specifics of the recovery program and necessary measures within their respective domains. Akhannouch reaffirmed the King’s commitment to the well-being of the affected citizens. An inter-ministerial committee has been established to assess the extent of the disaster’s damage and the needs of the population, thereby orchestrating an effective recovery strategy in line with the King’s instructions. This program is designed to restore essential infrastructure and deliver support to populations in the regions of Tata, Errachidia, Midelt, Ouarzazate, and Tinghir, as well as other provinces in the southeast. Moreover, the initiative includes provisions to revitalize agricultural activities, focusing on the repair of hydraulic infrastructures and assistance for livestock farmers in areas impacted by the disaster. The Finance and Economic Development Commission is slated to deliberate on the financial aspects of this program, with essential public financing to guarantee seamless operational execution and inter-ministry coordination. A subsequent meeting will be held with the Committee on Interior, Local Authorities, and Housing, where the Minister of Interior will address strategies to rehabilitate local communities, emphasizing urban planning and risk management. Likewise, discussions within the Infrastructure, Energy and Mines Committee will include the requisite repair efforts needed for roads, bridges, and irrigation networks, which are critical for regional functionality following the severe flooding. Furthermore, the Commission for Productive Sectors has been scheduled to meet, where the Minister of Agriculture, Maritime Fisheries, and Rural Development will outline measures to enhance agricultural resilience in afflicted regions, including initiatives to improve irrigation infrastructure and assist affected farmers in restocking their livestock to stimulate recovery in the agricultural sector. For both the King and the government, the priority extends beyond merely restoring housing and public facilities. They recognize the importance of psychological support and the collective solidarity exhibited by the Moroccan populace throughout these challenging circumstances.
The Al-Haouz earthquake, which occurred in September 2022, had devastating consequences, resulting in significant loss of life and destruction of property in Morocco. The Moroccan monarchy swiftly recognized the need for relief efforts and initiated plans for economic aid and reconstruction support for the affected regions. The current proposals reflect a structured approach to not only financial assistance but also infrastructural repairs and agricultural revitalization, showcasing the royal commitment to the well-being of its citizens in the aftermath of the disaster.
In conclusion, King Mohammed VI has underscored the Moroccan government’s duty to extend and enhance relief aid for the populations affected by the Al-Haouz earthquake. With planned financial support specifically targeting the reconstruction of homes and restoration of local infrastructures, alongside efforts to rejuvenate agricultural activities, the recovery program reinforces the government’s dedication to the welfare of its citizens. The collaborative efforts among various ministries exemplify a comprehensive strategy aimed at addressing immediate needs while laying the groundwork for long-term recovery and resilience.
Original Source: www.atalayar.com
