Yesterday, DSRSG/RC
@UlrikaR_UN and representatives of
@IOM_Libya ,
@OHCHR_MENA ,
@UNDPLibya ,
@UnicefLibya and
@UNSMILibya began a two-day mission to southern Libya to engage with local authorities, communities and partners on key priorities in the Fezzan region.
In Sabha, the DSRSG/RC met with General Ahmad Salem, Commander of the Southern Military Zone. Discussions highlighted the importance of maintaining UN access and engagement across southern Libya. Building on the authorities’ continued efforts to improve overall stability in the region, she called for further action to address illicit activities, including smuggling, trafficking and other cross-border criminal networks affecting the south.
The DSRSG/RC and the delegation also held a joint meeting with mayors from Sabha, Ubari, Ghat, Brak, Albawanees, Bint Bayya and Jufra to discuss local priorities and service delivery challenges in southern Libya, particularly climate risks, access to water and healthcare services. Discussions highlighted the need for more coordinated and systematic development support, stronger municipal capacities and greater municipality-led cooperation across the Fezzan region to address shared challenges and improve living conditions for local communities.
The delegation also visited the Libyan Red Crescent warehouse and reviewed ongoing UN support to Sudanese refugees, including assistance provided by
@UnicefLibya and
@UNHCRLibya for nutrition support and the distribution of humanitarian relief items to vulnerable refugee families.
The delegation further visited the
@UNESCO_Maghreb Library, supported by
@UNDPLibya , where historical UN documents dating back to 1950 reflected the longstanding partnership between the United Nations and Libya, including the UN’s role in supporting Libya’s path to independence following the 1949 UN General Assembly resolution.
The day concluded with a visit to Sabha’s Old City, where the delegation was warmly welcomed by elders, notables and other local community members, including women, youth and representatives of Libya’s diverse cultural components. The visit highlighted the beauty and richness of Libya’s history and the importance of preserving and investing in Fezzan’s cultural heritage for future generations and to serve as an inspiration for unity and cohesion.
The mission underscored the UN’s commitment to supporting practical, coordinated and locally driven efforts that respond to the priorities of communities across southern Libya.