MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, MOROCCO —A magnitude 6.8 earthquake struck Morocco last Friday (September 8), resulting in the tragic loss of 2,012 lives and leaving 1,832 individuals with severe injuries.
The earthquake’s impact extended across Morocco, affecting provinces including Al-Haouz, Taroudant, Chichaoua, Ouarzazate, Marrakech, Azilal, Agadir, Casablanca, and Youssoufia. Buildings crumbled, and essential infrastructure was left in ruins, leaving many citizens trapped beneath the debris.
Local authorities and volunteers acted swiftly, commencing urgent rescue operations. However, the demand for emergency assistance remains high. This earthquake was a deadly and catastrophic natural disaster, inflicting severe suffering on the Moroccan population.
In a news report broadcasted on September 12 by Morocco’s MEDI1 TV, Muhammad Hassan al-Hasani, the Head of the Moroccan Red Crescent Regional Office in Chichaoua, expressed sincere gratitude for Muhammadiyah’s rapid response. The Red Crescent and Muhammadiyah are now preparing to work together to alleviate the crisis.
Muhammadiyah’s Humanitarian Action
Muhammadiyah, being one of the largest Islamic movements, holds great importance, as emphasized by Ahmad Luthfi Ismail, an Advisor to the Muhammadiyah Special Branch (PCIM) of Morocco. Muhammadiyah strongly focuses on religious and social aspects while actively promoting humanitarian values. Muhammadiyah strengthens its dedication to humanitarian endeavors through the Muhammadiyah Disaster Management Center (MDMC), a specialized body dedicated to relief efforts and responding to emergencies.
Ahmad Luthfi Islamil mentioned that Muhammadiyah’s volunteers quickly assessed the urgent needs of the affected Moroccan citizens and are firmly committed to providing aid once these needs are clearly defined.
“We prioritize addressing the most urgent needs and providing specific assistance that the people of Morocco require. Once we have this information, our team from Indonesia will swiftly dispatch aid,” said Ahmad.
Local authorities play a vital source of information for these two humanitarian organizations, the Red Crescent and Muhammadiyah. They provide valuable insights into areas that urgently require aid. Both groups collaborate closely with local officials to ensure assistance reaches critical areas, including isolated villages.
Currently, Morocco is actively engaged in rescue and recovery efforts. This earthquake tragedy highlights the importance of international solidarity and collaboration in addressing the aftermath of such devastating natural disasters. All parties are firmly united in their commitment to help Morocco recover from this catastrophic ordeal and support the restoration process.
