Despite years of limited access to finance, a weakened private sector, and deep economic pressures, women in southern Libya are stepping forward as engines of change. Their businesses are not only sustaining families but also strengthening community bonds and contributing to long-term peace and stability.
Twenty-year-old Maryam is one of these young pioneers. From Ubari, an oasis town in southeastern Libya, she finished high school eager to work, but opportunities for women were scarce. High unemployment, limited recognition of women’s economic contributions, and persistent stereotypes left her vulnerable.
She learned about an initiative supported by the UN Peacebuilding Fund that offered vocational and entrepreneurship training. She seized the opportunity to chart a new chapter in her life.
Photo above and below: Women take part in entrepreneurial skills training workshops.
Maryam, a young entrepreneur from Ubari[With] a long-standing desire to start my own business and to learn how to establish it, I was motivated by my desire for self-improvement.”
Peace-positive entrepreneurship
The initiative took root, establishing Local Peacebuilding and Development Committees and expanding sustainable livelihood opportunities, particularly for women and young people.
Across the Sebha, Ghat, and Ubari municipalities in Libya, more than 400 people were trained in agro-food-related skills and received two months of cash-transfer support. Around 200 people received entrepreneurship training that included lessons on how women and youth can navigate the complex social and economic dynamics within their communities.
They learned to manage tensions and promote inclusive and equitable access to markets and resources. Nearly 70 people, including Maryam, received in-kind grants to launch their own businesses.
Maryam, a young entrepreneur from UbariAs a result of this project, I feel a greater sense of security. It met the needs of women and youth, and promoted stability. With improved living conditions and more people employed, there is a sense of safety and comfort in the community.”
Expanding impact across southern Libya
The peacebuilding initiative started driving measurable progress across the region. Nearly 3,000 young people were trained, almost half of them women. Many of them completed the training and were equipped with toolkits to launch their small businesses.
Eventually, the initiative expanded its entrepreneurship ecosystem by hosting awareness sessions, start-up weekends, and even hackathons. Ultimately, the peacebuilding investment helped women and young people generate income, reduce community tensions, and build confidence in local institutions—essential elements for sustaining peace.
Maryam, a young entrepreneur from UbariIt has created job opportunities, reduced social tensions, and strengthened community identity—all of which contribute to peace and stability.”
Our partners in peacebuilding in Libya
For 20 years, the UN Secretary-General’s Peacebuilding Fund has empowered people to rebuild their communities and countries in the aftermath of conflict and crisis, working with them to build the resilience needed to prevent the recurrence of violence and secure lasting peace.
The peace-positive entrepreneurship initiative in southern Libya was implemented by the the , and the , with support from local partners.
UN Peacebuilding initiatives are made possible by the generous contributions of Member States and the indispensable support of implementing partners, including UN agencies and local organizations.