1154 Mosques Reopen for Ramadan Following Earthquake Restoration in Al Haouz
Rebuilding Hope: Over 1,100 Mosques to Reopen for Ramadan Following Devastating Earthquake
In a beacon of hope following the devastating earthquake that struck the Al Haouz region of Morocco, the Minister of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, Ahmed Toufiq, announced the imminent reopening of 1,154 mosques. This remarkable feat of restoration, completed in time for the holy month of Ramadan, represents a significant portion of the 1,217 mosques damaged in the disaster.
The Ministry undertook a massive effort to assess the damage, conducting topographical studies on 2,044 of the 2,516 religious structures affected, including mosques, zawiyas (religious schools), and mausoleums. To ensure the safety and structural integrity of these sacred spaces, 1,182 demolition and reinforcement operations were carried out before the restoration process began.
Recognizing the cultural and historical significance of many of the damaged structures, the Ministry has prioritized the restoration of 362 historic mosques. Specialists trained in traditional Moroccan architectural and artistic techniques are being employed, highlighting the Ministry’s commitment to preserving the country’s rich heritage. This dedication to preserving historical authenticity is not new; since 2004, the Ministry has invested 819 million dirhams (approximately 82 million USD) in restoring 122 historic mosques, with an additional 18 currently undergoing restoration at a cost of 105 million dirhams (approximately 10.5 million USD). A new plan for the management of architectural heritage, encompassing 1,017 historic mosques, is already underway for the period between 2022 and 2026.
This commitment to restoration extends beyond historically significant structures. With 72% of Morocco’s 52,000 mosques located in rural areas, the Ministry recognizes the importance of these community hubs. The average ratio of mosques to people in rural areas is significantly higher than in urban areas (15 per 5,000 people compared to 4 per 5,000 people), highlighting their vital role in rural communities. In addition to the extensive restoration efforts, the Ministry has also undertaken the construction of 34 new mosques at a cost of 206 million dirhams (approximately 20.6 million USD), the rebuilding of 523 mosques, and the furnishing of 500 mosques. Furthermore, 1,600 mosques are equipped annually with fire extinguishers, and 600 are connected to water and electricity.
Despite these efforts, 4,039 mosques in rural areas remain closed due to damage, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the Ministry. Since 2010, a comprehensive program has been in place to restore and rehabilitate these closed mosques, ensuring that they can once again serve as vital centers for prayer, community, and connection.
The reopening of these mosques is not just about rebuilding physical structures; it’s about restoring a sense of normalcy and hope to communities deeply affected by the earthquake. It’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of collective action in the face of adversity.
