The Documentary Podcast - Restoring Libya’s Jasmine City

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Derna, in eastern Libya, was devastated three years ago by the world’s deadliest flood disaster this century. About 4,000 lives were lost. Now, the historic Mediterranean port famous for its fragrant jasmine flowers has been rebuilt, with new roads, bridges, housing blocks, schools and medical facilities. Families that lost their homes have been rehoused, many in spacious apartments. The work’s been planned and paid for by a reconstruction fund with a budget of $2bn, headed by Belgacem Haftar, a son of the military strongman who rules eastern Libya. Reporter Tim Whewell visits Derna to talk to survivors about their memories of the flood, and how they live now. How has the reconstruction been achieved? How does it fit into the political plans of the powerful Haftar family? And what mental scars remain after the flood in a city where almost everyone lost someone they loved, and many bodies have still not been identified? Produced and presented by Tim Whewell

Published on Monday, 9th November 2026.

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