In September 2023, a 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck Morocco, causing devastating damage across many areas. The epicentre was near the village of Ighil, in a mountainous region where many homes are built using traditional materials.
Almost 60,000 houses were destroyed or left unsafe. For many families, that meant not just losing their home, but also losing access to clean water, roads and essential services.
The earthquake left entire villages cut off, and reaching them became incredibly difficult. Many families are still living in tents, exposed to rain, heat and cold. Rebuilding has been slow because moving construction materials across damaged terrain takes time, and there’s still a long way to go.
Caritas Morocco, supported by the Caritas Confederation, is working closely with local communities. The initial plan aimed to support over 5,000 people. By the end of the third quarter, around 9,000 people had already received help, and that number continues to grow.
We’re focused on community-led recovery. Homes are being rebuilt, clean water access is being restored, and food and hygiene supplies are being delivered. Children are taking part in activities that help them feel safe again, including play, drawing and reading. Help is also reaching migrant communities in the Marrakech province, who were affected by the disaster.
In areas where rebuilding has begun, many homes are under construction and some are already complete, giving families the chance to start again after months of living in difficult conditions.
Caritas Morocco continues to respond to urgent needs while also supporting the longer journey towards recovery. It takes time, patience and ongoing commitment, and we’ll continue working with families as they rebuild their lives and restore dignity.