Morocco has unveiled plans to invest 7 billion dirhams (around $760 million) in a nationwide network of emergency storage facilities, in a bid to strengthen its disaster response infrastructure.
The announcement follows a directive from King Mohammed VI, prompted by the devastating earthquake that struck the High Atlas Mountains in September 2023. The quake, which killed more than 2,900 people and decimated homes and key public services, exposed critical gaps in the country’s emergency preparedness.
Under the new initiative, 2 billion dirhams ($217 million) will go toward constructing 36 storage platforms across the country. These facilities, covering a total of 240 hectares, are designed to ensure that life-saving supplies can be rapidly mobilized in the event of a crisis.
The remaining 5 billion dirhams ($543 million) will be used to stock the centres with essential items including tents, beds, blankets, mobile field hospitals, kitchen and bakery units, water purification systems, and emergency power generators. Equipment to tackle specific hazards—such as floods, landslides, and chemical threats—will also be included.
Morocco has faced a series of recurring environmental challenges in recent years, from flash floods and wildfires to cold snaps and prolonged droughts. The new investment signals a shift towards a more proactive approach in dealing with the rising frequency and intensity of natural disasters.
Authorities say the initiative aims to build resilience, reduce emergency response times, and ensure vulnerable communities have access to immediate assistance when disasters strike.