Storm Daniel hit Libya in September 2023, causing devastating human and infrastructure damages.
People lost their homes, schools and hospitals were damaged or closed. Children and youths who survived the devastating storm are exhibiting severe psychological distress, including fear of a recurrence, bedwetting, nightmares, withdrawal, confusion and lack of concentration.
We have successfully initiated rapid emergency response activities in the face of the crisis, due to our long and stable relationship with our sister organisations, as well as our presence in national networking alliances.
We were able to provide emergency aid to the most affected families and their children. In order to respond to people’s most urgent needs, we distributed safe drinking water and conducted hygiene awareness.
We also distributed hygiene items kits that were also adapted to children, and included shampoo, toothpaste, soap, female sanitary pads, detergent, but also diapers for those families with children.
Children were particularly at risk after the disaster. Many of them lost their family members or got separated. They had to be in shelter spaces with no safe areas.
That is why we worked with local organisations to create safe spaces for children where they could play and also recover from the traumatic event. We provided psychological support to both children and their caregivers, and paid special attention to children with high vulnerabilities and experiencing high levels of trauma. They were supported through individual case management.
For more information see Libya Joint Response
We work together with the Dutch Relief Alliance