WASHINGTON, DC – In light of the tragic earthquake that struck Morocco on September 8, 2023, the Millennium Water Alliance (MWA) extends its deepest sympathies and solidarity to all those affected by this catastrophe. We wish to acknowledge the dedicated efforts of our member organizations, CARE, Water Mission, and CAWST, who are actively involved in the relief and rehabilitation efforts in Morocco.
Here is an update on the activities of our responding members:
CARE
CARE is working tirelessly on the ground in collaboration with the Moroccan authorities and local NGOs to provide substantial support to the families and individuals impacted by the earthquake. Their immediate focus encompasses providing hot meals, ensuring a safe water supply, establishing emergency shelters, and offering medical and psychosocial support. CARE remains committed to adapting their response strategy as the situation evolves, aiming to deliver timely, culturally appropriate, and gender-sensitive assistance throughout the community.
Water Mission
Identifying primary needs centered around water, sanitation, and hygiene, Water Mission is deeply involved in assessing the needs of the affected communities. They have observed a critical issue of open defecation due to the loss of homes and are rigorously working to remedy this. Initiatives under consideration include the establishment of emergency latrines, handwashing stations, and safe water systems. Learn more about their mission and ongoing efforts in Morocco through their Press Release and updates on LinkedIn and Instagram.
CAWST
In response to this emergency, CAWST has shared a series of resources to support the relief efforts. These resources encompass downloadable tools, brief e-learning modules on drinking water treatment and quality testing, and aiding in the rapid development and implementation of handwashing programs during emergencies. All resources are available online and free for anyone to use in multiple languages, including English, French, and Spanish.
We thank our members, CARE, Water Mission, and CAWST, for their immense contributions during this critical time. Their efforts resonate with MWA’s collective mission to enhance global environmental health and respond promptly to emergency situations like this.
We encourage all our partners, supporters, and the international community to rally together and support the ongoing relief efforts in Morocco.