Siraj Al-Hijazi, Head of the Project Management and Development Department at the University of Bradford, said that the infrastructure projects implemented in Benghazi over the past two years represent a major strategic achievement and a qualitative shift in Libya’s engineering and development thinking.
Speaking to Libya Al-Hadath TV, Al-Hijazi explained that the current projects go beyond temporary solutions aimed at repairing war damage, and instead rely on comprehensive strategic planning designed to meet medium- and long-term future needs.
Integrated Urban Planning and Higher Standards
Al-Hijazi said the most notable feature of the Benghazi projects is their reliance on integrated urban master plans that take future population growth and city expansion into account. He pointed to clear improvements in implementation standards, both in the quality of construction materials and in the level of coordination between major projects.
These include roads, bridges, ports, and airports, alongside supporting infrastructure such as water networks, electricity grids, and sewage systems, which are now being developed as interconnected systems rather than isolated projects.
Two Years of Measurable Progress
He stressed that while much work remains to be done, the progress achieved over the past two years constitutes a significant accomplishment by all measures. According to Al-Hijazi, the current pace of work reflects a genuine determination to rebuild infrastructure on modern and sustainable foundations.
He noted that early indicators of sustainability are already emerging, particularly through increased attention to energy efficiency, resource management, and waste reduction—elements he described as essential pillars for balanced urban and economic development.
Roads and Bridges as Economic Backbones
Al-Hijazi emphasized that road and bridge projects form the backbone of any real economic revival, as they directly reduce geographical disparities between Libyan cities and regions, including the south. Improved transport networks, he said, strengthen national cohesion and stimulate economic activity across the country.
He added that land and air border infrastructure, together with road and bridge networks implemented within secured areas, are crucial for improving long-term geographic connectivity in a vast country like Libya, where efficient and integrated transport systems are essential.
Gateways for Investment and Growth
According to Al-Hijazi, these projects should not be viewed merely as service facilities, but as real economic engines that boost intercity trade and open wide opportunities for domestic and foreign investment. This, he said, enhances Libya’s investment appeal and supports the diversification of the national economy.
He also highlighted the strategic importance of airport development, noting that modern airports play a key role in unifying the national market, linking remote regions, and positioning Libya as an accessible gateway to the world—positively influencing the country’s image and investor confidence.
Investing in Stability and the Future
Al-Hijazi concluded by stressing that investment in strategic infrastructure is a direct investment in Libya’s future and economic stability. He said it is a key driver for promising sectors such as tourism, logistics, and financial services, while also contributing to job creation, particularly for young people.
