Tourism Giant Intrepid Travel Intervenes to Revive Morocco's Impacted Villages Post-Earthquake
In the aftermath of the devastating 6.8-magnitude earthquake that struck Marrakech and the surrounding communities in the Atlas Mountains region on September 8, Intrepid Travel swiftly mobilized resources to aid in the recovery efforts and reignite tourism in the affected areas.
With over 2,900 casualties, 5,500 injuries, and widespread destruction of homes, roads, and infrastructure, the earthquake left a profound impact on the region's inhabitants and economy. Recognizing the urgent need for assistance, Intrepid Travel's philanthropic arm, the Intrepid Foundation, spearheaded fundraising efforts, amassing a total of $550,000, supplemented by an additional $100,000 from the company's own funds. Zina Bencheikh, Managing Director of the Middle East, Europe, and Africa for Intrepid Travel, emphasized the significance of this fundraising campaign, stating that it was the largest appeal in the company's 35-year history.
To ensure effective aid distribution, Intrepid collaborated with two local partners: Education for All and the High Atlas Foundation. Education for All focused on constructing boarding house schools for girls who had lost their accommodations in the earthquake, while the High Atlas Foundation provided vital supplies such as shelter, food, and aid to survivors. These initiatives aimed not only to address immediate needs but also to facilitate long-term recovery and resilience-building within the affected communities.
The earthquake posed a significant challenge to Intrepid Travel's operations, as rural areas, which form the core of the company's activities in Morocco, were particularly hard-hit.
Nevertheless, Intrepid remained steadfast in its commitment to supporting these communities, leveraging its extensive network and resources to facilitate recovery efforts. By reinstating tours and activities in the impacted regions once road access was restored, Intrepid conveyed a powerful message of solidarity and resilience, affirming Morocco's continued status as a welcoming destination for travelers.
Intrepid Travel's deep roots in Morocco underscore its dedication to sustainable and community-focused tourism practices. Through partnerships with local businesses and guides, Intrepid ensures that tourism benefits reach the grassroots level of the destination, contributing to economic empowerment and cultural preservation. Mohamed El Bahri, an Intrepid tour guide, emphasized the importance of providing authentic Moroccan experiences by engaging with local communities and traditions, offering travelers a deeper understanding of the country's rich heritage.
Despite the challenges posed by the earthquake, Morocco's tourism sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience, buoyed by efforts such as Intrepid's and the country's continued appeal as a travel destination. Siham Fettouhi, Director of the Morocco Tourism Office for USA and Canada, highlighted the significance of tourism to the country's economy, with the sector accounting for a significant share of employment and export revenue. The successful hosting of international events in Marrakech, such as the World Bank and International Monetary Fund meetings, further underscored Morocco's recovery and reaffirmed its status as a global tourism hub.
Tourism is a vital sector for the country, however in the aftermath of the September 8 earthquake, flight bookings to Morocco experienced a significant decline, plummeting by 35%, as reported by ForwardKeys. Even three weeks post-earthquake, bookings remained down by 22%.
Siham Fettouhi, Director of the Morocco Tourism Office for USA and Canada, emphasized the growing importance of tourism to Morocco's economy during October. Notably, tourism has expanded its contribution to employment and has become a pivotal industry. According to UN Tourism data, tourism accounted for 16% of Morocco's total exports in 2022. In terms of service exports alone, it constituted a substantial 45%.
While progress has been made in rebuilding and revitalizing tourism in the affected villages, many survivors continue to grapple with the aftermath of the earthquake. Despite ongoing challenges, the resilience and determination of Moroccan communities serve as a testament to their enduring spirit and strength in the face of adversity. As tourism flows back to the region, efforts to support and uplift these communities remain essential, ensuring a sustainable and inclusive recovery for all.
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Credits: Skift
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