Marrakech, Morocco (7 July 2024)―In
the wake of the devastating earthquake that struck central Morocco in
September 2023, the High Atlas Foundation (HAF) has
remained steadfast in its commitment to supporting affected communities
through water, sanitation, and agricultural initiatives aimed at food
recovery, benefitting around 3350 people.
The earthquake left a trail of destruction, displacing families and
disrupting livelihoods. In response, HAF, Siemens Energy, and Siemens
Gamesa have launched a partnership dedicated to enhancing the
recovery and resilience of earthquake-affected communities in the Ouarzazate
region. This partnership culminated in the installation of a solar water pump
system and piping to expand the irrigation capacity in Agloula village
of the Amerzgane municipality. The implementation of this community water
project has been highly effective, demonstrating immense potential for future
growth in the agricultural sector.
In March 2024, 26 solar panels and a 7.4 KW solar pump were installed to
ensure reliable water access for irrigation, supporting the village’s
agricultural activities and tree planting. This investment in community-led
solutions for agricultural and water infrastructure aligns with SDG Target
6b, supporting and strengthening the participation of local communities in
improving water and sanitation management.
Thanks to this collaboration, 1,500 fruit trees (olive, almond, fig,
pomegranate, and carob) have been planted using the newly installed
irrigation structure, benefiting approximately 50 households (350 people).
Importantly, this month, farmers in the nearby villages of Achahra, Tadoula,
Zanifi, and Iflilt are being supported to use the Agloula model for planting
and irrigating 30,000 more fruit trees of the same varieties, benefiting
approximately 500 families (3,000 people).
The initiative will restore the environment, provide food and economic
resources to the local community, and establish a sustainable model for other
villages in the municipality. The impact of this partnership extends beyond
material assistance as communities have shared stories of strength and
gratitude, emphasizing the significance of solidarity and compassion in times
of adversity. “After the installation of the solar panels and the solar
pump,” remarked Janah Mohammed, Vice President of HAF’s local partner
association, “the situation improved significantly. In the past, we
irrigated our trees using traditional methods, and water was scarce because
it came from the valley. When droughts occurred, the trees were at risk of
dying. Lately, we struggled with scarce water and ineffective small solar
panels. Now, with 26 solar panels, we see a brighter future and hope to
expand the project to neighboring villages to plant more trees.”
Our recovery efforts transcend seasons, and we are committed to the long-term
healing and progress of communities. Water and agricultural infrastructure
projects remain steadfastly underway, aiming to assist farmers and rural
cooperatives in revitalizing their livelihoods, while also furthering women’s
welfare through access to psychosocial support and empowerment initiatives.
Our intervention addresses the critical need for water access through
renewable energy, significantly contributing to the village’s economic
recovery and environmental rehabilitation. This initiative reflects our
shared commitment to SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 11
(Sustainable Cities and Communities), underscoring a collaborative approach
between HAF, Siemens Energy, and Siemens Gamesa towards achieving sustainable
development in earthquake-affected regions.
HAF extends its sincere gratitude to Siemens Energy and Siemens Gamesa for
their steadfast support and dedication. Together, we are supporting
communities in restoring hope, fostering resilience, and paving the way for
sustainable progress.
To learn more about the High Atlas Foundation’s activities and projects, or
to make a donation, please visit our website.
https://www.africanexponent.com/high-atlas-foundation-delivers-relief-for-moroccan-earthquake-victims-2/
