As rescue and relief efforts continue unabated in the earthquake-hit areas, King Mohammed VI ordered that children who lost their parents to be given status of adoptees of the nation, in a gesture of national solidarity. The earthquake that struck a week ago was the deadliest since 1960 killing nearly 3000 people, destroying villages in the High Atlas mountains and leaving many orphaned children. As part of a series of measures ordered by the King in response to this disaster, taking care of orphaned children was given “utmost priority,” said a statement of the Royal palace. This status is given to children whose parents died or were disabled while defending Morocco’s territorial integrity or while contributing to peacekeeping and other national lofty missions. Since the earthquake struck, the King has ordered a swift response to rescue people in affected areas and ensure they have aid.

Source: The North Africa Journal September 16, 2023 13:08 UTC