CRISP Urges Global Solidarity with Morocco Following Devastating Earthquake
As of the latest update on Sunday afternoon, officials reported a staggering death toll of at least 2,122 people, with 2,421 more injured, including many in critical condition. Tragically, these numbers are anticipated to rise further as rescuers race against time to dig through the rubble of collapsed houses in remote areas of the High Atlas mountains.
Mohamed Najib Rahmi, the Program Coordinator at CRISP and a native of Marrakech, shed light on the gravity of the situation: "What you need to know about this catastrophe is that, far from the glitzy lights of Marrakech, the earthquake's epicenter struck the region of Al Houaze, Chichaoua, Azilal, Taroudante, and Ourzazate, specifically in the High Atlas mountains. They are a region already extremely remote and difficult to access, sometimes perched at an altitude of 2000 meters. Some villages required a day's journey on foot to reach on an average day. Now, you can only imagine the dire circumstances. Villages and communities that have endured for centuries vanished in seconds."
Najib emphasized the need for a sustained effort, stating, "Today, we must think beyond short-term interventions. This region was already under the pressure of climate change, with scorching summers and bone-chilling winters. Fragile infrastructure, limited resources, and the list goes on. In a matter of minutes, what has withstood a thousand years of struggle has been wiped out. Morocco needs all the help necessary to formulate a long-term strategy for reconstruction and rebuilding."
CRISP is calling upon all international organizations, partners, and friends to contribute generously and offer hope to the earthquake victims. Here are some links for donations:
- The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies: Donate Here
- UNICEF: Donate Here
- CARE: Donate Here
- Bank Al Maghrib – Special Fund for Earthquake Relief: Donate Here
Your contributions can make a world of difference in the lives of those affected by this devastating earthquake in Morocco. Together, we can provide vital support and help rebuild communities in their time of need.
