France has provided €600,000 Euros in support of the “Baity Centres” project in Libya, dedicated to the protection, education, and psychological support of vulnerable children. The project is conducted by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
The partnership with France aims to address the urgent needs of the most vulnerable children in Libya, by providing vital educational assistance and protection, with a focus on social cohesion and skills.
UNICEF representative in Libya, Michele Servadei said: “We are immensely grateful to the government of France for their generous contribution to the Baity Centres in Libya. This funding will be instrumental in providing vulnerable children with essential services, including education, child protection, and psychosocial support. Together, we can transform their lives, offering them a brighter future filled with hope and opportunity.”
“As part of its policy to establish stability in Libya, the French Embassy is providing support to UNICEF, and supporting its activities that have a positive impact on local communities, especially the most vulnerable,” said the French Ambassador to Libya, Mostafa Mihraje.
Last year, more than 40,000 children in eight areas around Libya, including Tripoli, Misrata, Zuwara, Ajdabiya, Benghazi, and Sebha, benefited from the comprehensive support provided by Baity centers.
This year, UNICEF and its partners are opening seven additional centers in Tripoli, Misrata, Sebha, Benghazi, and Derna. As well as five child-friendly centers in Sebha, Obari, Ghat, Brak, and Kufra, in cooperation with the Ministry of Social Solidarity and civil society organizations.
UNICEF emphasized its commitment to directly engaging in strengthening the capacities of the ministries of education, and social solidarity, and providing technical support. As well as developing a sustainable strategy for the Baity center model, and enhancing long-term flexibility.
UNICEF also noted that 52% of the Libyan population is young people, aged between 25-31 years, and 31% are under 15 years old.