The United Nations has renewed its condolences to the families of the victims of Hurricane Daniel and the devastating floods that hit the city of Derna and the surrounding areas on the first anniversary of the disaster.
In a statement, the United Nations praised the resilience and strength of local communities in Libya, which worked tirelessly to recover from the disaster, adding that its impact on affected communities and families is still profound, according to its description.
The United Nations noted that designating September 11 as a national day of mourning for Derna and the areas affected by the floods expresses the deep sorrow that unites Libyans and highlights the ongoing need for sustainable support for those affected.
The United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Libya, Georgette Gagnon, considered what the people of Derna and the surrounding areas experienced a year ago to be a tragedy that cannot be described in words, according to her.
Gagnon said that all the affected families she met are still mourning their loved ones who lost their lives and want their lives to return to normal, adding that the continued strong expressions of unity, solidarity and support by Libyans from all over the country for the affected areas creates hope for a brighter future, she said.
The United Nations also indicated that it has been actively engaged since last year, with the affected areas, authorities and people on the ground, to provide humanitarian support and assistance for early recovery.
The United Nations pointed out that its efforts in the current and planned phase are focused on recovery and long-term sustainable development in the affected municipalities.
The United Nations called on the Libyan authorities to continue to prioritize rebuilding vital infrastructure and housing, restoring livelihoods, and strengthening community resilience in all affected areas.
She also stressed the need to pay greater special attention to families who are still displaced and the most vulnerable among those affected by the disaster, especially women, widows, children, orphans and persons with disabilities.
The Acting Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya, Stephanie Khoury, stressed that there is still an urgent need for coordinated, effective and efficient long-term reconstruction and development.
Khoury renewed the United Nations’ call to all Libyan authorities to work together for the benefit of those affected and to ensure respect for transparency, oversight and accountability in reconstruction efforts.
The United Nations has affirmed its commitment to providing vital support in various areas such as education, health care, livelihoods and mental health support, with a focus on the well-being of affected people and meeting their most urgent needs.
Last year, at this time, the city of Derna and the surrounding areas suffered extensive and severe damage, as floods swept away entire neighborhoods and destroyed schools, markets, and public infrastructure, leading to the deaths and disappearance of thousands of people and the displacement of thousands more from their homes.
Source: Statement
2024-09-12 00:57:13