A total of 51,300 families have received financial aid for the reconstruction and upgrading of housing affected by the Al-Haouz earthquake, as of March 13, according to a press release from the Department of the Head of Government. Each family has received an initial payment of 20,000 dirhams (MAD) out of a total budget exceeding MAD 1 billion. The aid distribution process was carried out transparently through a digital platform involving all stakeholders, stated the press release issued after the 9th meeting of the Interministerial Commission chaired by Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch in Rabat on Friday. The commission reported the launch of the second installment of direct aid, totaling MAD 40,000 for rebuilding homes and MAD 20,000 for bringing them up to standard. Local authorities and relevant committees continue their efforts to provide rigorous support to affected populations, the same source added. In terms of reconstruction progress, 42,047 authorizations have been granted for reconstruction, with 8,694 damaged homes currently under reconstruction and upgrading. Debris clearance has been completed for 15,232 homes. Efforts are also underway to restore historic archaeological sites damaged by the earthquake, including the Saadian tombs, El Badii palace, Bahia palace, Ait Ben Haddou kasbah, and Ksar Taourirt. Regarding agriculture, 300,000 quintals of barley have been distributed benefiting 41,387 farmers, while the distribution of free livestock to affected farmers continues, aiming to distribute 70,000 head of cattle. In the education sector, preparations are underway to demolish and clear 236 schools to facilitate their reconstruction and reopening for students in the affected regions. Progress in upgrading 42 priority health centers, initiated in January, was also discussed during the meeting, the press release concluded. Source: Agence Marocaine De Presse