Morocco is stepping up its disaster preparedness with an ambitious plan to spend 7 billion dirhams ($760 million) on emergency stockpiles and storage platforms across the country, according to state media reports.
The move comes in direct response to the devastating earthquake that rocked the High Atlas Mountains in September 2023, claiming more than 2,900 lives and leaving widespread destruction in its wake. The disaster exposed vulnerabilities in Morocco’s emergency response systems, prompting swift action from King Mohammed VI.
36 New Storage Facilities to Boost Readiness
Under the new national stockpiling project, Morocco will allocate 2 billion dirhams to construct 36 modern storage facilities spread over 240 hectares nationwide. These hubs are designed to ensure rapid deployment of vital supplies when disaster strikes, covering both urban centers and remote areas.
Billions Set Aside for Life-Saving Supplies
An additional 5 billion dirhams will be spent to stock these warehouses with crucial emergency equipment. Supplies will include tents, beds, blankets, field hospitals, mobile kitchens and bakeries, water purification systems, and emergency power generators.
Beyond the basics, the stockpiles will also contain specialized equipment to combat floods, landslides, and chemical hazards—threats Morocco has grappled with in recent years amid recurrent flash floods, wildfires, cold snaps, and severe droughts.
A Nation Building Resilience
This large-scale investment marks a significant step in Morocco’s commitment to disaster resilience and citizen protection. By bolstering its emergency infrastructure, the North African nation aims to better safeguard lives and livelihoods in the face of escalating climate and natural threats.
As the country builds back stronger from past tragedies, Morocco’s new stockpiling plan sets a blueprint for proactive disaster management in the region.
