UN commends joint Libyan force to secure water system

The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) on Thursday welcomed the creation of a joint security force with other countries bordering Libya to guard the nation’s water network. 

The Libyan National Army (LNA) and renegade of commander Khalifa Haftar agreed on Tuesday to secure the Great Man-Made River (MMR) pipeline system, which is the worlds largest irrigation system and provides 70% of all freshwater from the Nubian Sandstone Aquifer System fossil aquifer across Libya. 

"I strongly welcome this achievement, which would not only ensure the security of the Great Man-Made River and uninterrupted flow of water supply but also paves the way for further confidence-building measures and eventually for the full implementation of the Ceasefire Agreement as well as for the reunification of state institutions," Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Libya, Ján Kubiš said. 

"This step sends a strong message to Libyans and international actors that Libyans are able and willing to overcome their differences and come together in building a unified, stable, prosperous and democratic country", he added. 

Authorities cut off the water supply to western Libya earlier this month due to sabotage threats from followers of slain dictator Muammar Gaddafi who demanded the release of Gaddafi’s brother-in-law, Abdullah al-Senussi. 

It was reported that it took up to two days for households that had been cut off to notice water shortages which have brought misery to those living in the area. 

Mains water was restored last week which bought relief to Libyan’s who had been struggling throughout the hot summer weather.