Recovery Struggles in Al-Haouz: A Year After the Earthquake
In the picturesque Al-Haouz region of Morocco, the aftermath of the devastating earthquake that struck on September 8, 2023, continues to reverberate through the lives of its residents. This disaster, often referred to as the "earthquake of the century," left a profound impact on the local communities, particularly in villages like Douar Ighil, where villagers struggle to rebuild their lives amidst ongoing hardships.
Despite receiving government support amounting to 2,500 dirhams ($250) monthly, many villagers express concern as this assistance is set to end this month. The earthquake, which registered a magnitude of 7.2 on the Richter scale, not only destroyed homes but also devastated local businesses, particularly affecting simple shops and the livelihoods of many.
According to the Moroccan Ministry of Industry and Trade, approximately 2,910 shops were damaged, with 45% completely destroyed. The economic activity in this region, which heavily relied on tourism, subsistence farming, and small-scale trade, has plummeted, pushing many to seek employment in urban areas, including Marrakech.
Villagers like Hassan, who lost everything in the quake, have been forced to travel long distances in search of work. The local economy, once vibrant with tourists flocking to enjoy the scenic beauty and local crafts, has come to a standstill. Business owners, such as Omar, who owned a ceramics shop, report that sales have drastically declined despite restoring their shops.
The government has initiated support programs, including financial aid for rebuilding homes and businesses, but concerns remain over the sustainability of these efforts. As the final disbursement of direct financial support approaches, villagers fear that without continued assistance, many will struggle to survive.
The Impact on Local Businesses and Tourism
The earthquake's impact is particularly evident in the restaurant and hospitality sectors, which thrived before the disaster. In the Al-Raha area, known for its charming eateries, owners report a significant drop in customer numbers. Once bustling with visitors eager to taste the local cuisine, these establishments now face uncertainty.
Restaurant owners are exploring creative ways to attract customers, even setting up tables in the valley despite potential flood risks. They remain hopeful that tourism will rebound, allowing them to recover from the losses incurred since the quake. The government has also begun disbursing funds to support the rebuilding of traditional industries, with plans to allocate nearly 78 million dirhams to aid local craftsmen.
As the one-year anniversary of the earthquake approaches, the residents of Al-Haouz are caught between hope and despair. While the government's support has provided some relief, the long road to recovery is fraught with challenges. Villagers are resilient, but the fear of losing the little support they have remains a constant worry, as they strive to rebuild their lives and restore the warmth of their communities.
