Morocco earthquake: immediate communication and engagement priorities
Key messages for responders
Imlil in the High Atlas region of the Morocco which has now been affected by the earthquake. Photo: Louis Hansel/Unsplash
A 6.8 magnitude earthquake hit Morocco’s High Atlas mountain range on 8 September 2023, causing devastating loss of life and damage. As of 10 September, more than 2,000 people have been killed, with a further 2,421 people reported injured while search and rescue efforts continue. Government authorities are leading response efforts, with national response mechanisms and civil protection units deployed to provide critical assistance.
In the critical days after the earthquake, information will play a life-saving role in enabling people to stay safe and make decisions that impact their survival, coping, reunification and recovery. The worst affected areas are in hard-to-reach mountain terrain, as well as the major economic and tourist hub of Marrakesh – meaning it is critical to understand the diversity within the communication and engagement landscape in order to mount an effective response.
CDAC Network recommends the following areas of focus to prioritise effective communication, community engagement and accountability (CCEA) in the earthquake response.
Key messages
People need actionable information to make well-informed decisions now
Leverage and amplify timely government messaging and public information in relevant languages through multiple, accessible channels.
Communicate clear, actionable information on critical topics using people’s preferred formats, channels and languages, including local languages. This can be informed by existing analysis such as CDAC’s media landscape guide.
Work with diverse and trusted local actors – such as local NGOs, human rights organisations and trusted local press – to disseminate messages widely, including to hard-to-reach communities.
Ensure communication in the diverse dialects and languages of affected people
Consider the different languages and Amazigh dialects of affected people in CCEA strategies. Pay special attention to differences in written and spoken language needs to ensure those with lower literacy have equal access to information.
Include standard questions on language and communication preferences in needs assessments. Disaggregate other data by language to see where language marginalisation might be causing gaps in access to services.
Use the channels that people trust and use: television is a key source for Moroccans
Prioritise television to disseminate accurate information to communities, ensuring consistent messaging across levels and languages.
Map and understand the full spectrum of channels that people use – including face-to-face communication in community settings.
Engage with messaging and social media channels, but be aware that in the High Atlas region in particular, connectivity and smart-phone usage is lower.
Counter mis- and disinformation with consistent, accurate information
Refer to analyses of communication channels and sources, and be prepared to monitor rumours in multiple languages.
Ensure a cycle of listening and conversation to identify rumours; verifying and triangulating facts; and engaging with communities to share verified information.
Work with other agencies. A collective approach will save time and resources, while reducing information burden on communities.
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