Jeremy Berndt, the Chargé d’Affaires of the US Embassy in Libya, held talks on Wednesday with the World Bank’s Resident Representative for Libya, Henriette von Kaltenborn-Stachau, on reconstruction needs in Derna and other flood-affected communities two months after the devastating floods that hit eastern Libya on 10 September.
In a brief statement published by the American embassy in Libya, Berndt described his discussions with Von Kaltenborn-Stachau as “productive”, adding that “Libyans have a right to expect a coordinated nationwide approach to reconstruction that puts the needs of flood victims first, with guarantees for transparency and robust international technical support.”
The massive flash flood that has left over 4000 dead and thousands missing came as eastern Libya was lashed by the hurricane-strength Storm Daniel on September 10.
The storm affected several cities, including Benghazi, Bayda, Al Marj, and Soussa, resulting in massive destruction of infrastructure and a significant loss of life.
Derna was hardest hit by the deadly flooding, causing the city’s dams to burst, washing away homes and people.