Joint Libya-AfDB workshop sets path for transport sector overhaul

The African Development Bank and Libya’s Ministry of Transport have concluded a three-day joint workshop aimed at developing a roadmap for a comprehensive transport sector strategy, in a move intended to support the country’s economic recovery.

According to a field report issued by the bank, the workshop—held from 15 to 17 April—brought together officials from the ministry under the Government of National Unity, alongside technical experts, to outline a practical framework for implementing a strategic study of Libya’s transport sector.

The sessions took place at the bank’s North Africa Regional Office and focused on improving the efficiency and performance of transport infrastructure and services across the country.

Participants included representatives from the Ministries of Finance and Transport, as well as officials from the Land Transport Authority and the Roads and Bridges Authority. The Libyan delegation was led by Issam Al-Gharwi, head of the preparatory committee for the Ports and Maritime Transport Authority, in addition to the project’s implementing body and its execution unit.

Discussions covered a wide range of technical and policy areas, including procurement procedures, contract management, financial governance, and disbursement mechanisms. Broader themes such as climate change, green growth, gender equality, and social inclusion were also addressed, alongside environmental and social safeguards and the next steps for implementing the study.

The initiative is backed by a joint funding package worth $680,000. This includes a $340,000 grant from the African Development Bank’s Middle-Income Countries Technical Assistance Fund, matched by a contribution from the Libyan government. The funding forms part of a grant agreement signed in June 2025 to support the development of a national transport strategy within a wider economic recovery reform agenda.

The study is expected to deliver a detailed assessment of the current state of Libya’s transport sector, identifying key gaps and challenges. It will also set out a strategic plan featuring priority actions over the short and medium term, alongside recommendations for institutional reform and public policy development.

In addition, the roadmap will include an action plan to enhance private sector participation and provide indicative financing options for future investments.

The report noted that the study would help identify bankable projects across both public and private sectors, strengthening the pipeline for future engagement by the African Development Bank in transport infrastructure and logistics services.

Malin Blomberg, the bank’s Deputy Director General for North Africa and Country Manager for Libya, said an efficient and integrated transport system is essential for connecting people to opportunities, facilitating trade, and improving overall quality of life.

The initiative forms part of the bank’s ten-year strategy, which aims to provide a comprehensive framework for transport policy and investment in Libya. It is designed to strengthen national resilience, improve connectivity between regions, and reduce the isolation of remote areas. Key reports will be produced in Arabic, English, and French to ensure broad accessibility for Libyan institutions and development partners.