A new model for disaster response. Details about the regional platform for reserves in the East

Economy of the East

In the aftermath of the devastating Hawz earthquake, Morocco launched an ambitious plan to strengthen its disaster management capabilities by creating a network of regional logistics platforms.

How does Morocco organize its response to disasters?

The violent shock of the September 8, 2023 Al Haouz earthquake, which left more than 3,000 people dead and tens of thousands more affected, revealed the urgent need to develop an integrated disaster management system in Morocco.

Less than two weeks after the disaster, King Mohammed VI, during a working meeting at the Royal Palace in Rabat on September 20, 2023, instructed the establishment of relief logistics platforms in all twelve regions of the Kingdom.

Integrated platforms for rapid response

These platforms house a strategic stockpile of basic supplies such as tents, beds, medicines, blankets, potable water, and relief equipment, with a smart supply management system in coordination with national suppliers.

Design inspired by international expertise

In designing this network, the Moroccan authorities relied on a comparative study of international models, especially Spanish, Portuguese, Italian and Chinese models.

These platforms are based on four main pillars:

• Forecasting and Early Warning
• Rapid intervention
• Recovery
• Reconstruction

Multiple Risks and Complex Challenges

Morocco ranks 51st globally in the United Nations Natural Disaster Risk Index for 2023, reflecting its high degree of exposure to various risks:

• Earthquakes (Al Hawz 2023, Al Hoceima 2004)
• Floods (North 2021, Rachidia and Tangier 2023)
• Forest fires (Chefchaouen and Sefrou 2021, Larache 2022)
• Drought and heat waves

Massive investments and comprehensive coverage

The Regional Platforms Program requires a total investment of Dh7 billion ($700 million), spread across:

• 2 billion dirhams for construction and equipping works
• 5 billion dirhams to provide supplies and equipment

A paradigm shift in emergency management

This initiative represents a radical shift in Morocco's disaster management policy, from a reactive system to a proactive and strategic planning approach, ensuring:

• Rapid response (within 6 hours of a disaster)
• Accurate tracking of aid
• Integration of regional platforms

In the East... The logistics platform will be located in the Naima community of the Oujda-Ankad municipality

The regional strategic storage platform will be built in the Naima community (Oujda-Ankad Municipality), on a collective plot of 22 hectares of land.

The site is characterized by its strategic location:

• Adjacent to National Road No. 6
• Adjacent to Regional Road 6003
• Just 30 kilometers from the A2 motorway

This thoughtful localization comes to ensure:
✓ Responsiveness
✓ Accessibility
✓ Connectivity to the regional and national road network

Note: Naima is an important logistics center in the Eastern Province due to its intermediate location between Oujda and Taourirt, which enhances its role in covering emergency needs at the regional level.