Morocco earthquake recovery struggles one year later

One year after a devastating earthquake struck Morocco's High Atlas mountains, the region remains in disarray, with many homes still in ruins. Nearly 3,000 lives were lost, and the aftermath has left communities like Imi N’tala grappling with the destruction. Residents are living in plastic tents, waiting for funds to rebuild or for their blueprints to be approved. The local infrastructure is severely lacking, with many roads remaining unmaintained and access to basic services limited. While some larger towns have seen a resumption of normal life and the beginning of reconstruction efforts, the majority of displaced individuals continue to face harsh living conditions. Anger is growing among residents who feel abandoned by local authorities, as the promised monthly stipends and reconstruction funds have been slow to materialize. Many are frustrated by the bureaucratic hurdles that prevent them from rebuilding their homes on the same land where they once lived. The government has committed to a significant investment of 120 billion dirhams ($12 billion) for rebuilding efforts, which are expected to take around five years. However, the slow pace of reconstruction has led to protests in various towns and villages, where residents demand more attention to their needs and better investment in social services and infrastructure. As the anniversary of the earthquake approaches, the situation remains precarious for many families. The ongoing challenges highlight the need for a more effective response to natural disasters and the importance of addressing the long-standing neglect of rural areas in Morocco.