Zambian Students in Morocco Safe After Recent Earthquake, Says Foreign Affairs Minister
The Zambian Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Stanley K. Kakubo, delivered a ministerial statement in the Zambian Parliament today, reassuring the nation about the safety of Zambian students in Morocco following a devastating earthquake that struck on September 8, 2023.
In his statement, Minister Kakubo informed the Parliament that the Zambian government had been closely monitoring the situation in Morocco after a powerful earthquake, measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale, rocked the Al Haouz region in the High Atlas Mountains.
This earthquake had far-reaching consequences, affecting six nearby provinces and resulting in a tragic death toll of 2,901 people as of September 12, 2023. Additionally, over 5,500 individuals sustained injuries.
However, the primary concern addressed by the minister was the well-being of Zambian students studying in Morocco.
Minister Kakubo revealed that out of the approximately 314 Zambian students registered with the Zambian Embassy in various Moroccan cities, an estimated 282 students were present in Morocco during the earthquake.
The minister expressed relief that all of these students were confirmed to be safe, and none of their residences were damaged in the earthquake.
The government, together with the Zambian Students’ Association (ZASAM), promptly coordinated efforts to ensure the safety and security of these students.
This was achieved through a network of town representatives who confirmed that everyone was accounted for and unharmed.
Special attention was given to the 19 Zambian students residing in Marrakech, the city nearest to the earthquake’s epicenter. Fortunately, no casualties were reported among them.
Minister Kakubo expressed gratitude for the safety of Zambian students and diplomats in Morocco and conveyed condolences and solidarity on behalf of the Zambian government to His Majesty King Mohammed VI, the Moroccan government, and the Moroccan people.
He commended the Moroccan government’s swift mobilization efforts and measures taken to support affected families and mitigate the earthquake’s consequences.
In closing, Minister Kakubo reiterated Zambia’s solidarity with Morocco in dealing with the aftermath of this devastating earthquake and offered prayers for the healing and recovery of the earthquake’s victims.
This statement in Parliament underscores the Zambian government’s commitment to the safety and well-being of its citizens abroad, particularly Zambian students pursuing education in other countries.
It also highlights the importance of international cooperation and support in times of natural disasters.
