President of the African Development Bank (AfDB) Akinwumi Adesina has commiserated with the people of Libya following the devastating floods due to the collapse of upstream dams in that country.
“On behalf of the African Development Bank Group, I extend our deepest sympathies to the communities impacted by Mediterranean storm Daniel in Libya. This storm has resulted in a significant loss of life and widespread devastation, most notably in the worst hit city of Derna,” Adesina said in a statement issued by the bank’s communications department.
Adesina described as a sad situation, the fact that Libya which is already facing many challenges has been hit by the ongoing catasthrophe.
“Sadly, the escalating number of deaths, reportedly now close to 5,300, and 10,000 missing persons—due to the collapse of upstream dams—emphasises the need for urgent reconstruction to protect lives and secure livelihoods,” he stressed.
Adesina urged the international development community to come together to support Libya in expediting the recovery and reconstruction of the affected regions.
He pledged the preparedness of AfDB do everything in its capacity to support the tragedy-hit communities in Libya.
We offer our condolences to the families mourning their loved ones. May God give them the fortitude they need at this difficult time,” Adesina said.
Officials said the death toll could surpass 20,000 after two dams and four bridges collapsed in Derna, submerging much of the city when Storm Daniel hit Libya on Sunday.
The two rival governments in Libya are reported to be coordinating relief efforts for victims of the flood, according to the UN.