On September 8, 2023, a massive earthquake struck Morocco, killing more than 2,600 people and affecting more than 100,000 children, according to initial reports.
In any disaster, children are the most vulnerable. Children and families may have been displaced by the earthquake and need immediate assistance. After receiving first aid, children and families affected by the earthquake will need help finding shelter, safe drinking water and food. Child protection services, including psychosocial support, will be critical to help children and parents cope with their ordeal.
Getting children back to school is also crucial for their long-term recovery. The earthquake that struck late on 8 September was magnitude 6.8. Like all major earthquakes, aftershocks are likely to continue in the days and weeks ahead.
The village of Tinmel is left virtually in ruins, and all the inhabitants are homeless. In some areas of the village, there is the smell of death from dozens of animals buried under the rubble.
Authorities report more than 2,600 people, including children, have died, with thousands more injured. According to initial reports, some 100,000 children have also been affected. It is likely that these figures will only increase.
