Multi Donor Reconstruction Fund for Murzuq Program

BACKGROUND

USAID launched the Multi Donor Reconstruction for Murzuq Program in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme in support of the Global Fragility Act objectives to facilitate the return of internally displaced people to a stable and unified Murzuq - the site of large-scale clashes and displacement in 2019.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The program facilitates Libyan authorities’ ability to deliver on their commitments to fund and advance Murzuq’s nascent reconstruction. It brings together international donors to support reconstruction efforts and provides a framework on how to best invest Libyan resources in an effective and transparent way that addresses community needs and builds a durable peace. Through this multi-donor initiative, USAID is able to create momentum, leverage diplomacy, and capitalize other donor assistance to achieve stability and peace in a critical area of southern Libya that was mired in conflict.

GOALS

Reconstruction Activities

Support the Libyan-led Murzuq Reconstruction Fund, enabling it to become a structure capable of coordinating transparent and accountable reconstruction in Murzuq

Peace Building  and Community Planning

USAID partners with local governance structures and the community of Murzuq to advance reconciliation efforts and inclusively develop a plan for reconstruction.

Coordinate Donor Assistance

USAID leads collaboration among Libyan authorities, international donors and partners, and other institutions to generate the coordination and support required to advance reconstruction in Murzuq.

ACHIEVEMENTS

• Mobilized $2 million in funding (European Union, Italy, and the United Kingdom) and $5 million in commitments from Libyan authorities to advance reconstruction 
• Partnered with the Ministry of Local Government to host a forum for Libyan authorities and international partners to discuss progress made in the nationally-led reconstruction efforts
• Recruited five experts who are building and operationalizing the Libyan-led Murzuq Reconstruction Fund by creating structures, drafting budgets, engaging local stakeholders, and facilitating professional collaboration and learning between the Murzuq Reconstruction Fund and the Benghazi Derna Reconstruction Fund
• Conducted stakeholder engagements with the Murzuq Steering Committee, Fezzan University, civil society organizations, returnees, private sector, and underrepresented communities including women, youth, and people with disabilities that feed into the draft reconstruction plan for Murzuq
• Procured furniture and equipment for Fezzan University that will also support a new business incubator partnership between the university and the National Programme for Small and Medium Sized Enterprises 
• Initiated a rapid livelihoods assessment of returnees to create programs for skill development and asset replacements to support small business creation and livelihood development