The Ministry of Finance of Libya’s outgoing Government of National Unity (GNU) has announced its readiness to mobilise financial resources to support United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) initiatives. The move comes as several donor countries have reduced or withdrawn funding, creating gaps in available resources.
Finance Minister Khaled Al-Mabrouk met with UNDP Resident Representative in Libya, Sophie Kemkhadze, alongside experts from both the ministry and the programme. Discussions centred on ways to strengthen cooperation, identify funding opportunities, and ensure the implementation of development initiatives aimed at fostering economic and social progress across Libya.
During the meeting, Al-Mabrouk praised the UNDP’s role in supporting Libyan state institutions and sectors in carrying out development projects nationwide. He stressed the ministry’s commitment to assisting UNDP efforts and pledged to bridge the funding shortfall through joint outreach to donors, as well as exploring allocations from the Libyan state itself.
Kemkhadze expressed appreciation for the minister’s understanding of the programme’s requirements and welcomed the GNU finance ministry’s willingness to help secure resources. She voiced hope that the ministry’s engagement would facilitate the execution of UNDP’s projects, whether funded by international donors or through Libyan contributions.
The two sides also agreed to prepare for the signing of a memorandum of cooperation, which will formalise and expand their partnership. The memorandum is expected to provide a framework for sustained collaboration, ensuring that development programmes can proceed despite financial challenges.
Libya’s partnership with the UNDP remains vital at a time when the country faces pressing needs for capacity building, institutional development, and inclusive economic growth. Mobilising new sources of funding is seen as essential for maintaining momentum in these efforts.
