On Sunday, the United Nations Support Mission in Libyan (UNSMIL) stated that during a visit to Sebha, several UN agencies reinforced their commitment to support the people of southern Libya.
The delegation included the Special Advisor of the UN Secretary-General to Libya (SASG), Stephanie Williams, Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Georgette Gagnon, and representatives of the UN Country Team.
In meetings with municipal officials, women, youth and civil society organizations, they agreed to closely collaborate and coordinate in an “escalated effort to tackle the region’s long-standing humanitarian needs and development challenges.”
“The humanitarian and development needs of people in Sebha are recognized and understood by the UN,” Gagnon said according to a statement.
“We reinforce our commitment to addressing those needs through support for reconstruction and recovery in southern Libya. This is linked closely with stabilization activities focused on national reconciliation, human rights, and social cohesion,” she added.
Municipal officials briefed Gagnon and the UN delegation on the region’s needs. They also discussed ways to increase UN support for “health services, education, water and sanitation, inclusive development projects on community stabilization, rehabilitation of infrastructure including in schools and health facilities, local governance, and migration.”
“We are fully ready to continue our support to the people of the south through our joint initiatives, with the objective to make a tangible difference in people’s lives,” Gagnon said.
“The UN is committed to supporting local authorities in improving the delivery of basic services, increasing human security, and creating opportunities for better, sustainable livelihoods,” she noted.
In a meeting with civil society organizations in Sebha, Gagnon underscored the importance of listening to local partners, and their vital role in promoting peace and resilience. She pledged the UN’s continued technical and financial support to help them implement community-based initiatives.
The two sides agreed that reviving the economy in the south is essential, not only to improve livelihoods, but to build peace. The UN Country Team will continue fostering entrepreneurship and investing in new businesses, especially those owned by women. UN agencies will also continue to support maternal and child healthcare services, child protection, and the fight against COVID-19 throughout southern Libya.
Municipal and medical officials also requested more UN assistance to meet the needs of the most vulnerable people in Sebha. This includes internally displaced persons, migrants, and refugees, particularly in the health sector.