A new state-of-the-art Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Centre has officially opened in the city of Derna, as part of efforts led by the Libya Reconstruction and Development Fund to restore vital health services in areas affected by recent crises.
The centre, inaugurated on Monday, aims to deliver comprehensive rehabilitative and physiotherapy services to patients, particularly those impacted by the devastating events that struck Derna. It offers modern treatment programmes designed to restore mobility, improve physical function, and help patients regain independence in their daily lives.
The opening marks a milestone in the joint engineering and medical effort to rebuild the city’s health infrastructure. The initiative also highlights the Libyan state’s commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery and promoting social stability and community resilience.
Equipped with advanced therapeutic technologies, the centre is staffed by a qualified team of physical therapy and rehabilitation specialists. It operates in a healing environment built around internationally recognised standards for physical medicine and rehabilitation.
Speaking to the Libyan News Agency, Director General of the centre, Azeldin Al-Farjani, said:
“Our ambition is for this centre to become a beacon of healing and recovery. We are fully committed to providing high-quality, responsive care that meets the needs of our community and supports the broader health improvement strategy in Derna.”
The launch of the centre is part of a broader national strategy to rebuild health infrastructure and improve quality of life in cities hit by conflict and disaster.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.