In light of the September 2023 earthquake that devastated Morocco, midwives from AMSF, with support from ICM and Direct Relief, provided critical healthcare and psychological support to affected communities. They established mobile clinics, conducted health screenings, and distributed essential supplies, while also training for future emergency responsiveness. Their efforts exemplify the essential role of midwives in crisis situations, addressing both physical and emotional needs.
In September 2023, a catastrophic earthquake, measuring 6.8 in magnitude, struck Morocco, inflicting severe devastation, particularly in the rural regions of the Atlas Mountains. The aftermath of this natural disaster resulted in the loss of over 2900 lives and left more than 5500 individuals injured. Among the populations most affected were expectant mothers, who faced the dual crises of losing their residences and loved ones while confronting critical health hazards in the ensuing chaos. In response to this humanitarian emergency, the Association Marocaine des Sages-Femmes (AMSF), with the support of the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM), mobilized to deliver essential healthcare services and support to those in crisis. To reach the remote communities severely impacted by the earthquake, AMSF mobilized five medical caravans, funded by Direct Relief, throughout the affected areas, which included Saidate, Tighdouine, Zerkten, Onein, and Timzdagiouine. A sixth caravan was launched in collaboration with ICM to provide aid to Ouirgane in the Province of Al Haouz, where the need for support was acute. On January 13, 2024, AMSF midwives, along with physicians and nurses, established a mobile clinic in Ouirgane, serving 169 patients in just one day. The services offered included prenatal care, general medical consultations, and screenings for critical health issues such as HIV, diabetes, and hypertension. They also conducted ultrasounds for fetal health assessments and provided educational sessions on family planning, nutrition, and breastfeeding. Additionally, they distributed 140 dignity kits, 10 newborn kits, and winter clothing to families affected by the disaster, ensuring that more vulnerable populations received adequate support. For patients requiring advanced medical care, the midwives coordinated referrals to higher-level health facilities, such as Marrakech University Hospital, thereby ensuring comprehensive follow-up care. The midwives’ role extended beyond physical health care; they also provided psychological support to women affected by the earthquake through both individual and group sessions aimed at helping individuals cope with the trauma and loss experienced. Women who had faced gender-based violence received specialized coaching and support, emphasizing the crucial, multifaceted role that midwives fulfill within their communities. One of the formidable challenges faced by AMSF midwives was the difficulty of accessing remote regions, which had sustained damage to local health centers, causing barriers to care. Nevertheless, the midwives, leveraging their established connections within local networks, successfully navigated these challenges to reach those most in need. In light of the ongoing recovery process, AMSF and ICM are proactively planning for future emergencies by equipping midwives with the necessary training to respond effectively to crises. AMSF has advocated for enhanced training for its members, as ICM has introduced the “Ready to Respond: A Midwife’s Guide to Humanitarian Action” program. This comprehensive training initiative is designed to prepare midwives for emergencies, encompassing disaster management and respectful maternity care in humanitarian contexts. In May 2024, ICM conducted a three-day Train the Trainer programme in Rabat, equipping AMSF midwives with skills to assess needs during crises, manage newborn care in emergencies, and advocate for the inclusion of midwives in national emergency response strategies. This training aims to empower midwives to safeguard community health and advocate for more resilient, inclusive healthcare systems in the face of future disasters. The collaboration between Direct Relief, ICM, and AMSF exemplifies the significant role midwives play during times of crisis. As affected communities in Morocco begin to heal, the dedication and continued efforts of these midwives shine brightly, providing both vital midwifery care and a beacon of hope and stability.
The September 2023 earthquake in Morocco, particularly devastating to rural areas, highlighted the urgent need for healthcare services in emergency situations. Pregnant women and families were disproportionately affected, which prompted the Association Marocaine des Sages-Femmes (AMSF) and the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM) to mobilize midwives and healthcare professionals. These efforts focused on delivering critical medical support and psychological assistance, addressing both immediate health needs and long-term recovery plans while preparing for future humanitarian emergencies.
In conclusion, the response of midwives to the earthquake crisis in Morocco illustrates their vital role in providing comprehensive healthcare and emotional support to affected communities. Through their concerted efforts and collaboration with organizations such as Direct Relief and ICM, midwives are not only addressing immediate healthcare needs but are also laying the groundwork for more resilient healthcare systems capable of responding to future crises. This dedication to community health and wellbeing serves as a model for humanitarian action in the face of natural disasters.
Original Source: internationalmidwives.org
