It has been one year since Storm Daniel devastated Libya’s eastern coast, causing over 5,900 deaths and displacing more than 44,000 people. Despite initial emergency responses, humanitarian needs remain high. Five prominent international aid organizations – Acted, International Medical Corps (IMC), the International Rescue Committee (IRC), the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), and Premiere Urgence Internationale (PUI) – emphasize the urgent necessity for ongoing emergency interventions and long-term recovery strategies to support affected communities.
A recently released briefing by these organizations highlights the continued challenges faced by flood-affected communities. While efforts to rebuild are underway, there are still critical gaps in essential services. Social, economic, and educational needs persist, with many families struggling to obtain necessities and displaced individuals living in precarious conditions.
Jared Rowell, IRC’s Country Director in Libya, states, “The impact of Storm Daniel lingers in Libyan communities. Our focus on providing healthcare and rebuilding essential services has been crucial, but there is a need for enhanced healthcare and comprehensive mental health services for a resilient recovery.”
Key Findings:
1. Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH): While efforts have been made to provide essential water access through rehabilitation and maintenance, significant work remains to ensure all communities have reliable access. Healthcare facilities face challenges with water quality, sanitation, and hygiene, affecting both patients and workers. Urgent action is needed to restore WASH infrastructure and raise hygiene awareness.
Thomas Whitworth, NRC’s Country Director in Libya, emphasizes, “Access to safe water is crucial for dignity and rebuilding. International support is needed for recovery efforts.”
2. Healthcare and Mental Health Support: Healthcare consultations have been conducted, but shortages of essential medicines persist, particularly for women and children. A lack of qualified staff and access to services pose challenges. Mental health support remains critical for rebuilding communities.
Talal Burnaz, IMC’s Country Director in Libya, adds, “Maintaining support during the recovery phase and strengthening the healthcare system is essential for continued service.”
3. Shelter and Livelihood: Many displaced families still lack adequate shelter, and psychosocial support is needed. Loss of male guardians has left women and children as heads of households, impacting income stability. More support is needed to meet ongoing needs.
Audrey Brenot, Acted’s Country Director, affirms, “From rehabilitating schools to providing assistance, we are committed to helping families rebuild.
The briefing emphasizes the need for a unified approach involving international agencies, local authorities, and civil society organizations. Establishing clear communication and efficient approval processes is crucial for an effective response.
Camille Saulnier, PUI’s Head of Mission in Libya, states, “Involving local communities is essential to our humanitarian response. Training volunteers and ensuring access to water empowers Libyans in their recovery.”
The aid agencies stress the importance of increased international support for sustainable development and resilience against future disasters. They call on the international community to remain engaged in Libya’s recovery journey, recognizing the need for sustained efforts.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Rescue Committee (IRC).