On Thursday, the General Director of the Libyan Development and Reconstruction Fund Eng. Belqasim Haftar announced a major initiative to rebuild and refurbish all cities across Libya.
His announcement came during a press statement at the AIM Investment Summit in Abu Dhabi. This extensive project aims to address the widespread devastation throughout the country and propel economic revitalization.
Eng. Haftar detailed the Fund’s strategy, highlighting ongoing projects such as the maintenance of Benghazi University and the Benghazi International Stadium, as well as essential infrastructure improvements like electricity and sewage systems.
The plans extend to cities including Derna, Al Bayda, Tobruk, Shahhat, Al Marj, and Ajdabiya, focusing on comprehensive reconstruction efforts.
He specifically pointed to the rebuilding efforts in Derna, which are crucial following the destruction left by Cyclone Daniel. The cyclone severely damaged residential buildings, roads, and the city’s lighting network, affecting the entire valley and surrounding areas.
The Fund is also advancing residential projects, with 2,000 housing units nearing completion and another 1,500 units under construction. Infrastructure upgrades include the construction of six new bridges in Derna and extensive repairs to the city’s road and power networks.
Efforts have expanded to include Al Bayda, Sirte, Al Marj, Sabha, Murzuq, and Kufra, showcasing a holistic approach to nationwide development that also encompasses hospitals, schools, and other vital public infrastructure.
He also emphasized the particular focus on Southern Libya, a region that has historically been marginalized. Despite changes in government, the current initiatives aim to foster development and job creation across each city in the south.
Plans for significant infrastructure work, such as the 750-kilometer road from Kufra to Jalu, are set to commence following the completion of preparatory studies.
Libya is actively seeking collaboration with international partners to aid in its reconstruction efforts. Eng. Haftar welcomed participation from Russia, other foreign companies, and firms from neighboring and friendly countries to engage in Libya’s large-scale projects.
He invited companies specializing in infrastructure, including roads, bridges, hospitals, electric power stations, and long-neglected water desalination plants, to contribute their expertise and resources.
By leveraging global expertise and fostering broad-based collaboration, Libya aims to establish a robust foundation for sustained economic growth and stability, providing renewed hope for its citizens and signaling a new chapter in regional development.