After the earthquake: RED NOSES International's mission in Morocco
In the aftermath of the devastating earthquake that struck Morocco in September 2023, RED NOSES International’s Emergency Smile team travelled to the country in February 2024, bringing psychosocial support to affected communities.
A warm welcome from Morocco’s rural communities
Working in close collaboration with two local partner organisations—the High Atlas Foundation and Amis Des Ecoles— the team made a strategic decision to set up their mission in rural areas, instead of working in the city of Marrakesh. This choice allowed the team to connect more intimately with families and children who were directly impacted by the earthquake and who often receive less direct support than those in urban centres.
The mission reached 1,584 individuals, providing moments of relief, joy, and connection to communities in need.
Reflecting on the experience, Craig, Head of Mission, shared:
"I could see how accepted and welcome we were. No matter who is there in the village or in the school and how many children or adults are there, we can always have an impact."
The team’s presence and performances created a safe space for children and adults alike to express joy, hope, and solidarity.
One particularly memorable moment came from a village where, initially, the team did not have permission to perform. Florentine Schara from RED NOSES Germany recounted the experience:
“The strongest moment in my head is from the day when we were about to leave this village where we had no permission to play, and then we got the opportunity to work. More and more people joined, and when we got into the car at the end, the whole village—including the animals—was around us to say goodbye. In that moment, I really felt, yes, we managed to meet and reach so many people. I was happy that we persisted and stayed longer than usual.”
Conclusion
Our team left Morocco with full hearts, grateful for the bonds formed and the memories created, and committed to continuing to bring more laughter and hope to those in need.
If you’d like to support more missions like Morocco’s one you can do so by visiting this link. Your support means the world to us!
