The devastating floods that hit Libya’s eastern coast in September 2023 continue to wreak havoc, with more than 8,000 people still missing. The human toll from this natural disaster now stands at nearly 13,000 victims, while the town of Derna, largely destroyed, had to be evacuated, leaving nearly 40,000 people homeless.
Manal Tasheni, a resident of Derna, testifies to the tragedy she experienced: “I lived near the sea, and no one came to warn us or help us evacuate. I constantly think about those who have disappeared, I can’t sleep. Derna was my life, but a part of me disappeared. Here, I feel lost. The government must help us, compensate for our losses and rehouse those who lost everything. »
While the authorities are slow to provide a concrete response, residents of Misrata, a nearby town, are mobilizing to support the victims. Asia Al-Swhedhi, head of an organization for women’s and youth rights, explains: “Derna is far from Misrata, but the population reacted quickly. We mobilized our networks and contacted local businesses, who were very generous. One of them donated 200,000 euros. Many women who arrived here had nothing left, the water had taken everything away. We provided them with clothes and medicine. »
Unfortunately, the situation remains precarious and the UN estimates that 250,000 people are still in need of emergency humanitarian assistance. An additional $40 million would be needed to meet this demand.
This tragedy once again raises the question of preparedness for natural disasters and the need for effective assistance during these emergencies. Citizens must be able to count on their governments and the solidarity of their fellow citizens to rebuild themselves after such ordeals.