Derna MP says honouring the storm’s victims means continuing reconstruction, restoring institutions and services, and strengthening the state’s readiness
LIBYA – Intisar Shneib, a member of the House of Representatives for Derna, said the anniversary of Storm Daniel, which struck the city in September 2023, brings back the scale of the tragedy it left behind, noting that Derna has managed — despite the human and material losses — to recover part of its life and continue on the path of reconstruction.
Victims Remain in the City’s Memory
Speaking to the Libyan News Agency (LANA), Shneib said the storm’s victims will remain present in the memory of the city and its people, stressing that honouring their memory is tied to the continuation of life, rebuilding the city and securing a better future for its residents.
She added that the Daniel disaster exposed the scale of risks natural disasters can leave behind, and at the same time showed Libyans’ capacity for resilience and solidarity.
She stressed the importance of drawing on that experience to strengthen disaster preparedness and raise the readiness of state institutions to protect lives.
Reconstruction Goes Beyond Roads and Buildings
Shneib explained that rebuilding Derna is not limited to reconstructing roads, buildings and bridges, but also includes restoring services and bringing life back to neighbourhoods and facilities, arguing that the reconstruction work under way in the city is a step towards recovering its strength and standing.
She praised the efforts of the Libya Development and Reconstruction Fund in carrying out Derna reconstruction projects, noting that completing them helps residents return to a stable life and strengthens the city’s ability to recover.
National Lessons for Prevention and Response
Shneib stressed the need to turn the anniversary of Storm Daniel into a national occasion to draw lessons, strengthen disaster prevention and response measures, and place the protection and safety of people at the top of public priorities.
She said Derna has moved beyond the shock phase and is continuing on the road to recovery, noting that continued building and the return of institutions and services are among the clearest forms of honouring the disaster’s victims.
She closed her remarks by praying for mercy for the victims of Storm Daniel, asking God to grant them His wide mercy, inspire their families with patience and solace, and protect Derna and its people.
