The devastating earthquake that struck Morocco just over a week ago has left a trail of destruction, but it has also revealed the indomitable spirit of the Moroccan people to rebuild their lives and communities. The earthquake, which caused significant damage to a six-century-old mosque in one of Amizmiz’s oldest neighborhoods, has left scars on the landscape and in the hearts of those affected.
Walking through the streets of Amizmiz, the signs of the earthquake are evident. The mosque’s pinky brown minaret bears a noticeable bite and a row of shops has been marred by a vertical scar that looks as if a giant axeman attempted to cleave them apart. The wreckage of destroyed buildings and the remnants of people’s lives are scattered throughout the neighborhood. Television sets jut out from the rubble, a stark reminder of the normalcy that once existed here.
Amidst the ruins, the resilience of the Moroccan people shines through. Many lives have been lost, and some bodies still remain buried. Families have been displaced, their homes deemed unsafe. The government has provided shelter in yellow and blue tents, and a local hotel has opened its doors to offer refuge free of charge. The solidarity of the Moroccan people has been evident as they come together to help those in need, defying the hardships they face.
One poignant example is Abdelali, a secondary school teacher in Amizmiz. Celebrating his daughter’s 21st birthday, what should have been a joyous occasion turned into a nightmare as the earthquake struck. Now, his whole family lives in a tent, the comfort of their home replaced by uncertainty and vulnerability. Abdelali spoke of the need for a stronger word than “horrific” or “disastrous” to describe the situation they find themselves in. The future of his school hangs in the balance, with classes potentially held in tents, risking the education of a whole generation.
The earthquake has also revealed the socio-economic disparities that exist in this region of Morocco. It is one of the poorest and least developed areas in the country, and the government’s response to the crisis has been criticized as slow. The bureaucratic and hierarchical nature of Moroccan governance has hindered swift action. Offers of assistance from former colonial power France have been declined, at least for now. However, the international community’s support will undoubtedly be necessary for the massive task of rebuilding.
In the face of these challenges, the Moroccan people have displayed resilience and unity. They have come together to provide essential supplies like water, juice, cooking oil, bread, and blankets to the survivors. Despite the risks posed by aftershocks in the mountainous terrain, they have made their way to affected areas to lend a helping hand. The spirit of Moroccan hospitality remains unbroken, even amidst the most trying circumstances.
Amizmiz, once a picturesque town frequented by foreign tourists seeking solace in the mountains, has now been forever changed. The road from Marrakech winds through its scenic landscape, but the devastation caused by the earthquake has altered its charm. The town’s once-impervious appeal is now overshadowed by the ruins left in the earthquake’s wake.
As Morocco grapples with the aftermath of this disaster, it is essential to focus on the long road to recovery. The resilience and determination of the Moroccan people will play a crucial role in rebuilding lives and communities. The international community must lend its support to aid in the reconstruction efforts ahead. Together, we can restore hope and help heal the scars left by the earthquake in Morocco.
