Libya has announced the launch of an ambitious $2 billion infrastructure project designed to turn the country’s southern desert into a major regional trade hub linking North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Europe.
The initiative, named “SSS,” is being executed with the participation of international companies as part of Libya’s 2030 vision to diversify its economy and strengthen infrastructure.
According to a senior official at the Ministry of Economy and Trade, the project will use the port city of Sirte as its cornerstone, capitalizing on its strategic position as the closest Mediterranean gateway to central and western Africa. From there, goods can flow through Niger and Chad into the continent’s interior, while also connecting Libya directly to European markets.
The first phase of the project involves building a road network linking Sirte with key southern cities, including Sabha and Sokna. The second phase will extend these routes beyond Libya’s borders, creating transport corridors into Chad, Niger, and eventually Europe through Sirte’s port. The National Development Authority confirmed that final paving work is already underway along the eastern section of the highway.
The initiative is expected to take two years to complete and is being carried out in cooperation with Egyptian, Emirati, and other foreign firms. Officials say the project adheres to international infrastructure standards and has been made possible by improved security conditions in the east and south, attributed to the Libyan National Army under Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar.
The government of Osama Hammad, which controls eastern and southern Libya, is leading the effort, seeing it as a strategic step toward revitalizing the south, attracting investment, and positioning Libya as a central artery for African and Mediterranean trade.
In parallel, Libya is working with Tunisia on upgrading the Ras Ajdir border crossing to international standards, aiming to turn it into a modern gateway toward Africa. The project has been presented to COMESA and AfCFTA for inclusion in continental trade corridor programs, with preliminary approval already granted.
