Libya Acted
From Fields to Markets: Inspiring Success Stories of Local Entrepreneurs
In Libya's Fezzan region, part of the vast Sahara Desert, ongoing ethnic and tribal conflicts have significantly weakened local institutions and the economy. This remote and arid region faces severe economic challenges due to its dependence on the informal economy, limited public sector opportunities, and scarce natural resources. The high unemployment rate particularly affects farmers, youth, and women, making them highly vulnerable to economic fragmentation and insecurity. With support from UNDP, Acted, in collaboration with its local partner, Sebha Debate Club (SDC), has implemented a groundbreaking project in Murzuq and Ghat to address these issues and generate sustainable businesses.
Over the course of five and a half months, Acted worked alongside SDC to improve the livelihoods of 30 farmers and 30 startups led by women and youth, all selected through a thorough committee process. The project included capacity-building and business training sessions aimed at expanding participants’ knowledge and providing essential financial support and beneficiaries received cash assistance, asset replacements, and grant disbursements for their respective projects.
Empowering Entrepreneurs: Maryam’s Journey to Success
Maryam*, a 25-year-old entrepreneur who launched a company specializing in hair and skin products, shared her experience: “Before starting my company, I experimented with making hair and skin products at home. After researching on the internet, I discovered new recipes and learned about the use of various herbs. This inspired me to create my own company and open my shop. Many products available today contain harmful chemicals that are not good for hair and skin. I wanted to address this issue by creating natural products.”
One of the biggest challenges was acquiring the necessary equipment.
Thanks to the training provided by Acted and SDC, Maryam enhanced her entrepreneurship skills and learned how to effectively present her project in the media, manage her income, and grow her business.
Maryam adds that her business and the local community benefit from each other: “My project uses local herbs, which helps support the local community. I received support from local farmers who provided herbs at better prices”.
Looking ahead, Maryam plans to expand her company and reach more areas.
From Fluctuating Prices to Business Growth: Naima’s Transformation
Similarly, Naima*, a preservative-free products seller, described how the training program alleviated the impact of fluctuating prices: “This is my first training with Acted. I learned how to plan a project and manage fixed assets. Financial support helped me secure a new location for my business.” The training equipped Naima with organizational and management skills, enabling her to increase production, expand her company, and reach a larger audience. Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to “continue with your project, keep going, and remain consistent.”
Enhancing Product Quality and Resilience: Fatima and Hedi’s Success
The project not only restored hope but also imparted critical knowledge on asset management or dealing with fluctuating electricity. Fatima, a female baker, explained that learning the differences between fixed and variable assets and their calculations significantly improved the quality and variety of her products. Hedi, a farmer in Murzuq, noted the impact of Acted’s training on his business: “One significant change has been the popularity of my Deglet Noor dates. By providing clean and sanitized packaging, I improved the service and attracted more customers.”
Acted’s interventions have not only provided immediate support to entrepreneurs in Fezzan region but have also laid the groundwork for long-term economic resilience and growth. By equipping local farmers, youth, and women with critical skills and resources, the project has fostered a more sustainable and self-reliant economic environment in the region. The success stories of Maryam, Naima, Fatima, and Hedi illustrate the tangible benefits of the training and support provided, showcasing significant improvements in their businesses and livelihoods.
Looking ahead, Acted plans to build on these successes by expanding similar programs, focusing on scaling up successful initiatives, and reaching more communities in need. The positive impact on beneficiaries’ lives will continue to ripple through the region, creating new opportunities for economic development and stability. Through ongoing support and capacity-building efforts, Acted aims to empower more individuals and contribute to the broader goal of economic revitalization in Libya.
*Their names have been changed to protect their identity.
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