Affordable housing as an alternative for reconstruction after an earthquake in rural areas: Al Haouz, Morocco

The severe earthquake that devastated Morocco in September 2023 highlighted the country's susceptibility to natural catastrophes, particularly in rural areas like Al Haouz. While the government responded by prioritizing affordable housing alternatives as part of its restoration strategy, the difficulties of reconstructing in distant, socioeconomically vulnerable areas necessitated more context-specific measures. This thesis focuses on the underappreciated ability of rural communities to lead their own recovery using accessible, sustainable, and culturally embedded strategies. It investigates how inexpensive housing may be used not only as a temporary remedy, but also as a long-term, adaptive solution adapted to rural communities' post-disaster needs. Based on an in-depth review of literature and international case studies from Chile, El Salvador, and Morocco, the study suggests a hybrid framework. This concept incorporates the utilization of local resources, strong community engagement, and gradual housing solutions. By emphasizing these features, the thesis illustrates how rebuilding may become a vehicle for empowerment—allowing impacted communities to rebuild safer, more resilient dwellings that represent their social and environmental circumstances.