In September 2023, Morocco was struck by a devastating 6.8 magnitude earthquake, a natural disaster that sent shockwaves through the nation, leaving destruction and sorrow in its wake. This tragic event has impacted countless lives, with over 2,100 reported casualties.
Image: WSJ
A Nation in Mourning
Centered in the mountains just outside of Marrakesh, this earthquake was the strongest to hit the region in a century. It was a terrifying ordeal, as one resident near the epicenter shared, “It didn’t last long, but felt like years.” The last comparable disaster in Morocco occurred in 2004 when a 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck Al Hoceima, claiming around 630 lives. However, the nation’s most catastrophic earthquake of modern times dates back to 1960, near the western city of Agadir, which claimed the lives of at least 12,000 people.
Video: WSJ
A Plea for Help
The impact of this recent earthquake is staggering, with thousands killed and injured, and around 300,000 people in need of assistance in and around the city of Marrakech. The earthquake has not only devastated lives but has also caused widespread damage to the popular tourist city of Marrakech and its surrounding villages.
The United Nations estimates that 300,000 people in the region have been affected, many of whom are sleeping outside due to concerns over aftershocks. In response to this desperate situation, international aid groups are mobilizing to raise funds and offer assistance to those in need as the search for survivors continues in the aftermath of Morocco’s deadliest earthquake in more than six decades.
Amsha Africa Foundation: A Message of Solidarity
Amsha Africa Foundation stands in unwavering solidarity with our partners and friends in Morocco during this challenging time. We mourn with our brothers and sisters who are enduring this tribulation and extend our deepest condolences to all those affected.
Ways to Extend a Helping Hand
International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies: Coordinating with the Moroccan Red Crescent, this organization is actively engaged in search and rescue operations, providing first aid, psychosocial support, and transportation of the injured to hospitals. They have already disbursed more than $1.1 million from their disaster response emergency fund.
UNICEF: Prioritizing assistance for displaced children and families.
World Central Kitchen: Founded by celebrity chef and philanthropist José Andrés, this NGO is on the ground in Marrakech delivering food and plans to provide fresh meals in the coming days.
Food Bank of Morocco: A nonprofit association based in Casablanca, this organization is seeking donations to provide aid.
Doctors Without Borders: This humanitarian medical care NGO is sending teams to Morocco to assess how they can best provide medical care to earthquake survivors.
Islamic Relief: Working alongside local humanitarian organizations in Morocco, they are focusing on providing food, shelter, and healthcare.
Verify Your Donation
Before making a donation, ensure that your contribution is going to a verified charitable organization. Organizations like CharityWatch and Charity Navigator provide information on the finances and transparency of U.S.-based groups. Similar resources are available in other countries to vet international organizations.
In these trying times, every contribution counts, and your support can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by this devastating earthquake in Morocco.
