Murzuq, Libya – A city marked by years of conflict is now taking significant steps toward recovery. Through an initiative implemented by UNDP Libya’s Local Peacebuilding and Resilience Programme, in partnership with Acted and funded by USAID, the “support for the creation of small businesses and strengthening the livelihoods of returnees and internally displaced people in Murzuq” project is empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to rebuild their businesses, create job opportunities, and restore hope for displaced families returning to their homes.
Since 2019, Murzuq has faced the devastating effects of armed conflicts, causing widespread displacement and economic collapse. Families are now beginning to return to the city, but the journey to rebuild the city’s economy and infrastructure remains challenging.
As an implementing partner of UNDP, Acted is supporting UNDP’s efforts to restore livelihoods and foster economic recovery to create an enabling environment for Internally Displaced People (IDPs) to return and promote lasting peace. By focusing on MSMEs—key drivers of local economies—this project aims to create a sustainable foundation for Murzuq’s resurgence.
The project integrates several essential components to address the community’s needs. A comprehensive Rapid Market Assessment, which had identified key gaps and opportunities in Murzuq’s local markets, formed the foundation for targeted interventions. Sixty MSMEs were thus trained in business management practices to enhance their operations and ensure long-term sustainability, while livelihood grants were provided as financial support for businesses to replace lost essential assets and restart operations. A climate-smart agriculture initiative also introduced four MSMEs to the Johnson Su bio-reactor technique, promoting sustainable farming practices. By prioritising MSMEs that adopt environmentally conscious and community-focused approaches, the project ensures a lasting and meaningful impact on Murzuq’s economy.
One of the project’s beneficiaries, the owner of Naqashat Henna, shared how Acted’s effort, supported by UNDP and USAID, transformed her business.
Before the project, I could only take one or two orders a day because everything was done by hand. With the grant, I was able to purchase a printing machine to create intricate henna designs quickly and efficiently. Now, I can handle multiple orders each day, which has significantly increased my income and allowed me to serve more customers. This has been life-changing for my business and my family.
Another success story comes from the owner of Rayan Shop, a female entrepreneur who received support to enhance her shoe shop.
Acted’s training taught me how to conduct an annual inventory, which has helped me manage my business more effectively. The grant allowed me to decorate and upgrade my shop, attracting more customers and improving sales. Today, I dream of expanding my business into multiple branches, and I feel confident that I can achieve this goal with the skills and support I’ve gained through this project.
Additionally, the owner of Aljazeera Factory, which produces PVC and aluminum products, recounted his journey to recovery:
Our factory had been operational since 2017, but the conflict in Murzuq forced us to leave our home for five years. When we returned, most of our equipment had been stolen. Through Acted’s support, we registered for the program, participated in a five-day training, and received a grant to replace our equipment. This not only allowed us to restart our operations but also enabled us to contribute to our community by repairing local schools and homes. Reviving the local economy is a cornerstone for Murzuq’s recovery, and we are proud to be part of this journey to help our community rebuild and grow.
The project has achieved significant milestones in fostering economic recovery in Murzuq. Sixty MSMEs have been empowered through comprehensive business management training which enhanced their capacity to operate efficiently and sustainably. Financial grants have played a pivotal role in helping these businesses restore their operations and rejuvenate local markets. Additionally, four MSMEs have embraced innovative climate-smart agricultural practices, notably the Johnson Su bio-reactor technique, setting a benchmark for sustainable development in the region. Collectively, these initiatives have generated new job opportunities and strengthened the local economy, advancing Murzuq’s journey toward recovery and resilience.
As the project nears completion, its impact is clear. By fostering resilience and sustainability, it has laid the groundwork for Murzuq’s long-term recovery. Beyond rebuilding livelihoods, this initiative inspires hope among the city’s residents and ensures that Murzuq continues its path to a brighter future.
The project has revitalised Murzuq’s local economy, enabling businesses to reopen, markets to flourish, and new job opportunities to emerge. By empowering MSMEs with the tools and support needed to rebuild, the initiative has strengthened community resilience, recovery, and fostered sustainable practices, laying the foundation for a brighter and more self-reliant future in the city.