Derna – Intissar Shneib, the member of the House of Representatives for Derna, said that the anniversary of Storm Daniel, which struck the city in September 2023, serves as a reminder of the scale of tragedy it caused. She noted that, despite the significant loss of life and property, Derna has managed to regain aspects of daily life and continue its path of reconstruction.
Shneib told the Libyan News Agency that the victims of the storm remain in the memory of the city and its residents. She emphasized that honoring their memory is linked to the ongoing process of rebuilding and improving the city’s future.
She added that the disaster showed the dangers of natural catastrophes but also demonstrated the resilience and unity of Libyans. Shneib stressed the importance of learning from this experience to strengthen disaster preparedness and raise the readiness of state institutions to protect lives.
Shneib clarified that rebuilding Derna is not limited to roads, buildings, and bridges. Instead, it also involves restoring services and reviving neighborhoods and public facilities. She described current reconstruction efforts as vital steps toward restoring the city’s well-being and stature.
She praised the work of the Libyan Development and Reconstruction Fund, noting that completing reconstruction projects will help residents return to stable lives and enhance Derna’s capacity to recover.
Shneib called for turning the anniversary of Storm Daniel into a national occasion for drawing lessons, improving prevention and response to disasters, and prioritizing the protection and safety of people. She stated that Derna has overcome the shock and continues on the road to recovery. She said that continued rebuilding and the return of institutions and services are key ways to honor the memory of the victims.
Shneib ended her remarks by praying for the victims of Storm Daniel and wishing their families patience and comfort, while asking God to protect Derna and its people.