Maggie goes to The High Atlas
Program: Educational Center
Blueprint: Maggie goes to
Location: Taddarte, province d’Al Haouz, Marrakech-Safi, Morocco
Budget: € 120.000
Timeline: March 2024
Project description
Context
Field visit to the affected region in the High Atlas Mountains following the earthquake of 9 September 2023 - November 2023
In the aftermath of the devastating earthquake in the Atlas Mountains, with the epicenter just 72 km from Marrakesh, Morocco finds itself in a challenging rebuilding period. The mountainous region, with narrow roads leading to remote villages, faced immense obstacles for aid and recovery.
In Taddarte, a village next to Moulay Brahim (My Brahim) and close to Plateau du Kik, located in the Al-Haouz province in the Marrakesh-Safi region, the inhabitants have experienced the destruction of their homes and buildings, forcing them to set up tent camps. The primary school, crucial for the community, has been destroyed, leaving 250 children without access to education.
In response to this emergency, three Dutch foundations—Be Children’s Hope, Infinite Blessings, and Planet Inaba—have joined forces with the common goal of rebuilding the affected regions, together with the local community. Their focus is on sustainable projects, with specific attention to education.
Together with us as the circular innovation partner, the ambitious plan to construct two Maggie shelters serving as classrooms for the children of Taddarte and neighboring villages was born. Our inventive structures combine the flexibility of tents with sustainable, circular construction principles. By using local materials and with community assistance, these shelters are not only built quickly but also endure for at least 15 years.
The collaboration between these Dutch foundations, Maggie Program and Association of Parents and Guardians of Students of the Tiouli Kike School Group underscores the importance of international solidarity and the power of innovation in addressing the complex challenges faced by the affected communities. The goal is not only the restoration of physical structures but also the provision of sustainable solutions for the future.
Partners
Part 1
Final ground preparations and arrival of the truck
Completion of the basic foundation and terrain leveling by the local community!
When the truck from Belgium arrived, it was greeted with an unforgettable welcome-singing, dancing, and the entire village coming together to help. In just two hours, everything was unloaded, ready for an early start the next morning!
Part 2
First day of construction
The first day of building began already with many helping hands-young and old, men and women, everyone eager to contribute. Even the children gathered to watch curiously how all these materials would come together to shape their future school.
Within hours, all the frames were assembled and ready to be raised. The Maggie structures began to take form, set against a stunning background.
Even Heidi the dog kept a watchful eye on the progress!
Part 3
Finishing the Maggie frames
With steady teamwork, we continued assembling the full frame of the two Maggies, making sure everything was perfectly level!
Part 4
Floors, walls and full speed ahead!
The floors were laid—completed with a round of applause from Poops!
Each day, we were treated to delicious superfood, lovingly prepared by the warm-hearted local community.
The wall tarpaulins were pulled, the double roof covers installed, and the outer walls were filled with the excavated earth from the site. All at full speed, there was no slowing down!
Part 5
Adding final elements & official visits
The work progressed as insulation was placed in the roof, and with the expertise of a skilled local carpenter, the interior walls took form, dividing each Maggie shelter into 2 classrooms.
Sliding windows were installed, allowing for natural light and ventilation. Meanwhile, the final sections of the outer walls were filled with earth, topped with locally sourced stones.
As the structures transformed into buildings, the electrician began wiring the school, preparing it for the next steps in its transformation into a functional learning space.
We also welcomed a visit from officials from the Department of Education.
In the meantime, the locally produced doors were installed—measured on day 2 and already in place just 3 days later! Just in time for the heavy rain that night.
On the eve of the opening event, the first classroom was already furnished with school benches, ready to welcome the students.
Part 6
Official opening of the Maggie School
The final touches were completed in the morning—last finishings on doors, cleaning the classrooms, and decorating for the big moment!
In the afternoon, the Maggie school was officially inaugurated with a joyful celebration. Traditional Berber ceremonies, authentic music and delicious food!
The children even prepared a small play on road safety, it was a privilege to watch.
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During the project, we experienced the strength of community bonds, the resilience of the people and the richness and beauty of local traditions.
Building a Maggie is about more than just a construction—it is about creating opportunities and building futures. It is about connection between cultures, collaboration across generations, and working side by side, regardless of background, religion, gender, or age.