High Atlas Earthquake Recovery - Almost 2 Years of Action and Resilience Following the devastating 6.8-magnitude earthquake that struck Morocco's High Atlas in September 2023, Global Diversity Foundation rapidly mobilised its long-standing presence in the region to deliver immediate, life-saving support. Within 48 hours, we transitioned from biodiversity and cultural conservation to emergency aid, reaching isolated communities with essentials: food, water, shelter, medicine, and hygiene kits.
Nearly two years after the earthquake, many remote High Atlas communities remain in precarious conditions. While early recovery efforts helped stabilize urgent needs, deep structural challenges persist, from fragile local food systems to damaged water infrastructure and social exclusion of the most vulnerable. Without continued, future-focused support, hard-won progress risks stalling, and resilience to future crises remains fragile.
Our action strengthens long-term recovery by restoring agrobiodiversity, repairing critical water systems, supporting animal health, and empowering local cooperatives and women leaders. Through community-led initiatives, digital mapping, and capacity-building, we're ensuring that recovery translates into resilience, helping High Atlas communities rebuild not only what was lost, but what's needed to thrive amid future challenges.
GDF has supported the resilience of traditional livelihoods in the High Atlas for over a decade. We are now using these funds to help families re-establish their traditional ways of living & working. Our approach is community-led, prioritising people's pressing needs to ensure their livelihoods remain resilient. In recognition of our earthquake recovery efforts, King Charles III awarded us the UK Humanitarian Medal at a ceremony at Buckingham Palace in February of this year.
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