More than two thousand fatalities, thousands of injuries, hundreds of homes and buildings reduced to rubble are the toll of the last earthquake registered in Morocco. In this regard, Caritas Internationalis, in communication with Caritas Morocco and Caritas Oriente Miedo, are working to provide immediate aid to those affected by this tragedy.

The earthquake, which was the strongest to shake Morocco - located in North Africa - in 120 years, had an impact throughout the country, reaching as far as Casablanca. However, the most serious damage occurred in the cities and towns near the base of the Atlas Mountains and in the center and suburbs of Marrakech, one of the most important cities.

Mobilization of humanitarian aid

Rescue work is intensifying in recent hours in the area affected by the earthquake with the arrival of fire teams, ambulances and civil protection workers. On the other hand, the authorities have set up some tents to welcome all the people, however, there is concern about getting enough food and water for the survivors.

Despite the mobilization of humanitarian aid that is being carried out, the destruction of access roads to the most remote villages is hampering the efforts of the Moroccan authorities to direct aid to some of the most affected regions of the country.

Pope Francis expresses his concern. solidarity

This Sunday, during the Angelus in St. Peter's Square, Pope Francis expressed his condolences for what happened and asked for "concrete help from everyone to support the people of Morocco." In addition, he shared his gratitude to the rescuers and people who work “to alleviate the suffering” of those affected at this tragic moment. “We are close to the people of Morocco,” the Pontiff emphasized.

Cáritas in action

For its part, Caritas Internationalis is working to provide immediate aid and support to the victims. To this end, it is in continuous communication with Caritas Morocco and we actively collaborate with Caritas Middle East and other Caritas members around the world.

“Together, we are dedicated to carrying out assessments and coordinating a comprehensive response in the coming hours and days. While we remain united in our prayers for the victims and their families. Caritas Internationalis reaffirms its commitment to alleviating the suffering caused by this devastating earthquake” they share on their official site.