Georgette Gagnon, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, emphasized the need for enhanced government support to promote sustainable development and peace in Libya. During a three-day mission to Ghadames, Derj, and Awal last week, Gagnon engaged with over 100 community leaders, youth, and women, discussing their concerns and proposing solutions to improve their communities.
Community representatives highlighted urgent needs for better healthcare, psychosocial support, inclusive education, and community facilities, particularly for youth and women. They also stressed the significant gap in employment opportunities and the lack of equal access to public sector jobs.
“I heard many concerns about the need for trained healthcare professionals, quality education facilities, and broader infrastructure needs such as water, transportation, and roads,” said Gagnon. “Through the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, the UN in Libya has been working with the government to support communities, but more financial support is clearly needed from the government to ensure equal access to resources and opportunities for all.”
In Ghadames, Gagnon launched UNSMIL’s new youth strategy, #YouEngage, which focuses on advocating for young women and men and providing training and networking opportunities to build their skills. Recommendations from young people will be consolidated and relayed to decision-makers within Libya and internationally to ensure their voices are heard in national and local efforts to address the country’s challenges.
“I had the great honor of visiting the old city of Ghadames and witnessing the efforts and plans to restore this unique city of peace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the oldest and most celebrated Saharan cities,” Gagnon said. She underscored the urgent need to secure and preserve Ghadames’ rich cultural and economic identity.
As part of the mission, Gagnon visited three sites in Awal, Derj, and Ghadames where UNDP Libya is promoting sustainable development through the installation of solar panels. These panels provide electricity for lighting in medical facilities, a mosque, and throughout Ghadames’ old city’s tourist trail. Additionally, she visited a refurbished women’s training center in Derj and a primary school in Awal in urgent need of rehabilitation, meeting with municipal leaders and Tuareg notables to discuss the community’s concerns.
“People in Ghadames, Derj, and Awal spoke about the great human and economic potential in their communities to advance sustainable development,” Gagnon said, adding that such potential can be fully realized with increased development support and investment from the government.
The UN in Libya remains committed to supporting and collaborating with communities and government authorities across Libya to accelerate sustainable peace and development for the benefit of all people in the country.
