Morocco health harm reduction conference tackles risks related to natural disasters

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The second edition of the African Conference on Risk Reduction is taking place from September 27 to 29, 2023, in Marrakech, under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. This internationally significant event is jointly organized by the Ministry of Health and Social Protection and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Rural Development, and Water and Forests, in collaboration with the African Global Health (AGH) initiative.

This conference brings together more than 83 countries from around the world, and it gathers African, Asian, and South American ministers, as well as scientific delegations and researchers representing a diverse range of continents. The central theme of this edition is “Water, Environment, and Food Security.”

A highlight of this conference is a special session dedicated to the management of risks related to natural disasters, particularly in light of the recent earthquake that struck Morocco, resulting in the tragic loss of nearly 3,000 lives and numerous injuries. Renowned international experts will delve into the natural threats facing our planet and discuss measures to address them. This session underscores the necessity of effective global cooperation in times of significant crises.

The second edition of this conference aligns fully with the enlightened vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI for sustainable water resource management, environmental protection, and ensuring food security in Africa. His Majesty has emphasized on multiple occasions the importance of responsible water use and the need to combat the wasteful utilization of this crucial resource. He also advocates for enhanced African cooperation to address these major challenges.

This conference in Marrakech represents a turning point in Afro-African cooperation by aiming to develop a common policy not only in the fields of health and social protection but also in economic, scientific, and cultural sectors. The ultimate goal is to ensure a dignified life for all African populations while respecting fundamental human rights, including the right to adequate food and clean drinking water.

His Majesty King Mohammed VI has repeatedly expressed his vision of a united Africa to confront the challenges related to water resource management, environmental protection, and food security. The Sovereign has also encouraged the implementation of concrete projects, such as the Triple-A Initiative, to address the challenges posed by climate change and agriculture in Africa.

The Marrakech Conference provides an essential platform for the exchange of ideas and experiences while contributing to the construction of a prosperous, sustainable, and solidarity-based future for Africa, in alignment with the enlightened vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI.