Two years ago today, the city of Derna was struck by a devastating catastrophe that swept away homes, shattered hearts, and claimed countless lives. The destruction spared neither people nor land, leaving behind a landscape of grief and ruin.
In the months that followed, teams worked tirelessly to clear debris, recover bodies, and cleanse the city. But beyond physical recovery, the challenge of rebuilding lives and infrastructure remained. It was here that the General Command of the Armed Forces stepped in, taking on the responsibility of support and oversight. In February 2023, it organized an international reconstruction conference that drew delegations from 26 countries, signaling a global commitment to Derna’s revival.
Establishing the Derna Reconstruction Fund
In December 2023, Prime Minister Osama Hammad issued a decree establishing the “Fund for the Reconstruction of Derna and Affected Areas,” in response to the floods caused by Storm Daniel, which struck Derna and the Green Mountain region on September 10.
The fund was tasked with setting and executing a comprehensive reconstruction policy. A qualified executive director with engineering expertise was appointed to lead the fund, with authority to make decisions necessary to fulfill its mission.
The fund’s responsibilities include developing master plans for affected cities, designing public buildings, housing units, and commercial spaces, in coordination with local and international consultancies. It also sets construction standards, design protocols, and oversees implementation.
Following its creation, the House of Representatives allocated 10 billion Libyan dinars to support reconstruction projects.
From Disaster to Development
This collaboration between government, military, and civil society transformed tragedy into an unprecedented wave of urban and economic renewal, led by the Reconstruction and Development Fund under engineer Belkacem Khalifa Haftar.
Shortly after the disaster, Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar visited Derna and called for unity and accountability, vowing to hold those responsible for negligence to justice. He described the tragedy as a moment of national reckoning, highlighting the broader issues of corruption and mismanagement.
In March 2025, Haftar returned to Derna to inaugurate the newly completed administrative complex, praising its engineering quality and urging continued momentum in rebuilding public services. The event was attended by Speaker Aguila Saleh and Prime Minister Osama Hammad.
A Surge in Reconstruction
Investment Minister Ali Al-Saeedi noted that Libya is witnessing a strong reconstruction wave, forming a cornerstone of national development. Activist Ali Abdelnabi emphasized that Derna’s transformation is not only a response to the storm but also a remedy for years of neglect. The city has completed major infrastructure projects and even hosted its first international event—a mini football championship.
Key reconstruction efforts include building new housing units, bridges, and public facilities. A major project involves constructing 2,000 modern homes with integrated amenities such as schools, shops, and parks. Additional developments include a university campus in Fatayeh, the Abu Mahboul bridge connecting Derna to Sousa, and upgrades to coastal road networks. These are complemented by vital infrastructure improvements in electricity, sanitation, and telecommunications.
Engineer Belkacem Haftar adopted the motto “From Destruction to Reconstruction,” conducting field visits day and night, meeting with global firms, and signing agreements to restore life to the devastated city.
Progress and Expansion
As of early 2024, Haftar reported that reconstruction in Derna had surpassed 70% completion. The city, already deteriorating before the storm, has seen comprehensive restoration of educational, health, and utility infrastructure. The fund has completed 2,000 housing units and launched 1,500 more to address severe housing shortages.
In Benghazi, the fund has begun work on 20,000 housing units to meet growing demand, with projects progressing on schedule.
A Call to Witness the Transformation
On the second anniversary of Storm Daniel, Belkacem Haftar issued a heartfelt invitation to all Libyans—especially those who joined the “Fazaa Khout” relief campaign—to visit Derna and witness the achievements made possible through unity, resilience, and determination.
“We promised Derna would return more beautiful than ever—a city of hope, civilization, and renewal,” he said. “Today, we send a message of love and optimism, erasing the pain of the past as we see our people living in peace and stability.”
He concluded with a tribute to the victims of Storm Daniel, praying for their souls and pledging to honor their memory by continuing the work of rebuilding Derna and Libya.
Security as a Foundation for Growth
Remarkably, the very region now bustling with construction was once a hub of terrorism and destruction. The transformation was made possible by the security established by the Armed Forces under Field Marshal Haftar, beginning with Operation Dignity in 2014, which dismantled extremist groups in the east and south.
In recognition of these efforts, Brigadier General Abdel Salam Al-Werfali and other officers awarded the “Medal of Derna” to Belkacem Haftar, following instructions from Major General Abdelbaset Lotfi Abu Ghris.
The Derna Reconstruction Fund stands as proof that Libyans, united in purpose, can turn disaster into opportunity—and rebuild not just cities, but a shared future.
