The UN World Food Programme (WFP) announced that it assisted over 15,000 people in September 2022. It added that 90 million tonnes of food assistance were distributed throughout Libya.
In a statement, the UN body noted that US$91,945 cash-based transfers were made. US$12.5 million for six months (October 2022-March 2023) net funding requirements.
The statement added that WFP reached 15,717 beneficiaries in September through its various operations. This accounts for 35% of the monthly plan, mainly as a result of access constraints since August, due to insecurity, and related clearance and accessibility restrictions.
Under the General Food Assistance Program (GFA), 9,257 internally displaced persons (IDPs) and non-displaced individuals were assisted through food-restricted prepaid cash transfers, and 1,150 vulnerable Libyans received in-kind food rations. In addition, 5,310 persons in need of international protection were provided with in-kind individual food rations, according to the statement.
WFP continued facilitating the exchange of agriculture-related information among 650 farmers and agriculture specialists. This was via the agriculture information networks, across 12 locations in Libya. WFP also extended its hydroponics program in Tawergha, and initiated the installation of greenhouse units.
On 7 September, WFP co-led and facilitated the Food Security Sector meeting with the participation of six agencies. WFP presented its analysis of the food prices in Libya, revealing an increase of 33% in the cost of the food portion of the Minimum Expenditure Basket between June 2021 and June 2022.
On 20 September, the Ubari Market celebrated its first anniversary. WFP in partnership with the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), and a local NGO partner established the market in 2021 as part of the national peace process to promote stability and social cohesion in the community. The initiative has been duplicated in Sebha.
Between 21-23 September, WFP invited the Libyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Social Affairs, and the National Economic and Social Development Board to a social protection workshop. This is to develop a detailed work plan to assist the National Social Protection Steering Committee in formulating a strategy.
On 29 September, WFP co-chaired and facilitated the first UN Communication Group (UNCG) meeting with the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), after the group had suspended its activities in 2021. UN agencies and the Resident Coordinator’s Office reviewed essential documents such as Standard Operating Procedures and the contact list. The statement said that the group aims to showcase the UN’s work in Libya, by discussing and spreading key messages.
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