Partnering for Progress: Community-Based Reconstruction in Morocco

In September 2023, when a powerful earthquake struck the Atlas Mountains in Morocco, our team at Build Change knew we had to act quickly. The devastation was immense, and rural communities were particularly vulnerable due to the fragility of their traditional housing. With the support of the Skoll Foundation, we embarked on a journey to not only rebuild but to build back stronger, focusing on resilience and community empowerment.

Our approach was rooted in the Berber philosophy of “Tiwizi” – solidarity work. This meant working hand-in-hand with local communities, understanding their needs, and empowering them to lead the reconstruction efforts. We partnered with incredible local organizations like the Tiwizi Foundation and Architecte et Développement Maroc, who were instrumental in making this vision a reality.

One of the first things we did was retrofit the Taourirt Community Center in Asni. This center, managed by the Tiwizi Foundation, is a vital hub for the community, a place where people gather, learn, and support each other. The earthquake had damaged the building, making it unsafe. By retrofitting it, we not only provided a safe space but also demonstrated practical retrofitting techniques that could be applied to homes.

Training was a crucial component of our strategy. We trained nineteen local builders in retrofitting techniques specifically adapted to the Moroccan context. This hands-on training equipped them with the skills to build more resilient structures. We have also educated one hundred twenty-six homeowners on good construction practices, empowering them to make informed decisions about rebuilding their homes. 

To ensure that this knowledge was accessible to everyone, we developed a Pocket Retrofitting Guide that has been reviewed by the engineering firm TEC. This guide provides step-by-step solutions for structural reinforcement and repairs, making it easier for homeowners and builders to implement resilient construction practices.

We also partnered with the Polytechnic University Mohammed VI (UM6P) to integrate resilient construction practices into the academic and public culture. This collaboration is crucial for long-term sustainability, ensuring that future generations of engineers and builders are equipped with the knowledge and skills to build resilient communities.

Of course, we’ve faced challenges. One of the biggest is the lack of regulations and standards for resilient construction. This is why we’re actively advocating for regulatory changes, working with engineering firms and academic institutions like UM6P to promote the adoption of resilient, improved local building practices.

Looking ahead, we see tremendous opportunities to expand this work and create lasting change. By continuing to support homeowners and construction professionals through technical assistance, we can significantly improve construction quality and build more resilient communities.

This project exemplifies the Skoll Foundation’s vision for a “sustainable world of peace and prosperity for all,” and we are grateful for their ongoing support of Build Change through this project. It demonstrates that by empowering local communities, transferring knowledge, and fostering collaboration, we can create “bold and equitable solutions to the world’s most pressing problems.”

We invite corporate and philanthropic funders to partner with us to expand this vital work in Morocco and beyond. Your investment will directly support the training of homeowners and builders, the dissemination of crucial knowledge through resources like the Pocket Retrofitting Guide, and the advocacy for resilient building practices.  Join us in building a future where homes and community infrastructure stand strong, transforming vulnerable areas into beacons of resilience through community-led reconstruction.