Report exposes flaws in Al Haouz quake recovery efforts amid wave of protests

Transparency Morocco’s Atlas Great Reconstruction Program Observatory released a report exposing significant flaws in the government’s response to the devastating earthquake that struck the High Atlas region in September 2023.

The report found that the recovery process was slow and inefficient, plagued by bureaucratic hurdles and a lack of transparency in the distribution of aid. 

Despite initial promises of swift action, the government has struggled to deliver on its commitments, leaving many affected communities in a state of limbo.

One of the key issues raised by the report is the government’s approach to reconstruction. While there have been efforts to provide immediate relief, the long-term recovery plan appears to be lacking in both ambition and execution. 

The report criticizes the government’s decision to impose stringent building standards that may hinder the region’s cultural and architectural heritage. 

Many residents have resisted the government’s building criteria, opting instead for locally sourced materials that they believe are better suited to the region’s climate.

The report pointed out the concerns about the fairness and transparency of the aid distribution process. While direct aid disbursements have been relatively efficient, many beneficiaries complained about the distance to bank branches and the high cost of transfer fees.

The observatory’s analysis also revealed gaps in the government’s funding plan for the reconstruction efforts. 

The report said that there was a lack of clarity regarding the budget’s objectives and the uncertainty surrounding contributions from various sources. 

The delayed activation of the High Atlas Development Agency further hindered effective disaster management.

The report criticized the government’s reliance on local authorities to manage field operations, including the registration of affected individuals and the distribution of aid. 

This reliance on local authorities led to inconsistencies and delays, as local officials often lack the necessary resources and expertise to handle such a large-scale disaster.

The report raised concerns about the state of education and health services in the affected areas, noting that the government has failed to deliver on its promises.

More than 15 months after the devastating disaster, survivors staged a protest Monday in front of the Parliament building in Rabat, decrying delays and alleged irregularities in distributing financial aid and reconstruction support.

The demonstrators, organized by the Coordination of Al Haouz Earthquake Victims, accused local authorities of “manipulations and violations” in handling aid for families and rebuilding damaged homes. Protesters said they continue to suffer while living in tents despite repeated “false promises” from regional officials.

“Committees came and went, but nothing has changed,” they chanted, along with slogans such as “Amzmiz, you jewel… the thieves ruined you” and “Minister, responsible… this situation is unacceptable.”

The protesters urged the Ministry of the Interior to step in, resolve pending cases, and investigate the alleged misconduct of local officials in Al Haouz province.