In a significant move to bolster Libya’s recovery efforts, the African Development Bank (AfDB) has signed three critical agreements with the Libyan government, earmarking $1 million dollars, for emergency support and development initiatives.
This financial aid, to be channelled in partnership with UNICEF and the Libyan government, marks a crucial step in addressing the aftermath of the devastating floods in Derna, and reinforcing Libya’s developmental trajectory.
Responding to the dire situation caused by the floods in Derna, the AfDB has rapidly mobilized resources to support the affected regions. The allocated funds will primarily focus on essential supplies for temporary educational spaces and refurbished classrooms, addressing the immediate needs of laundry, hygiene, and emergency materials. This swift response exemplifies the bank’s commitment to effective humanitarian aid in crisis situations.
The AfDB, alongside UNICEF and the Libyan government, intends to quickly disburse the funds to those most in need, with particular emphasis on supporting women and children who are disproportionately affected by such disasters. Libyan Finance Minister, Khaled Al-Mabrouk expressed his appreciation for the AfDB’s prompt action, acknowledging the bank’s key role in supporting Libya’s development agenda.
Michele Servadei, UNICEF’s representative in Libya, highlighted the fund’s critical role in the flood response. The aid will enable UNICEF to provide clean water, improve sanitation and hygiene, and ensure the safe reopening of schools with necessary psychosocial support services.
In addition to emergency aid, two further technical assistance agreements under the AfDB’s Middle-Income Countries Technical Assistance Fund aim to enhance Libya’s strategic development. The first supports Libya in developing its first strategy for food security and nutrition, aimed at bolstering the resilience of its food supply chain. The second facilitates public financial management reforms, crucial for Libya’s economic governance.