UN displeased by Libya’s unilateral efforts to rebuild flood-ravaged areas

The United Nations says it is concerned by the unilateral efforts by the Libyan authorities to rebuild flood-affected regions earlier last month. No fewer than 4000 people died and thousands of homes destroyed after heavy rains and the collapse of two dams in the country…

The United Nations envoy to Libya Abdoulaye Bathily has raised deep concerns over the unilateral attempts for the reconstruction of flood-ravaged areas in the North African country. 

Earlier in September, eastern Libya was battered by fatal floods brought by Mediterranean storm Daniel and the collapse of two dams, killing over 4,000 people and leaving a massive trail of destruction. 

Derna was the hardest devastated by the floods, which caused the city’s dams to break, destroying homes and people. 

While reacting to the reconstruction moves by the Libyan authorities, the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) said in a statement that, “These unilateral efforts are counterproductive, deepen the existing divisions in the country, impede reconstruction efforts, and are at odds with the outpouring of solidarity, support, and national unity shown by Libyan people from all corners of the country in response to the crisis.” 

The UN envoy called for a united national system to properly pursue the reconstruction of the flood-damaged areas.

Last month, dozens of Libyans came out in the city of Derna to demand the reconstruction of their homes and bring those responsible for the flood disaster to book.

Libya has been divided by two administrations, one in the east and one in the west, each backed by armed militias and international backers.

The disaster has however become a rallying cry for national unity in a country ravaged by 12 years of conflict and division.