Beirut, 2 November 2020. Almostthree months after the Beirut Port explosions, UN-Habitat continues its effort to support families affected by the blast to return and repair their homes. UN-Habitat and the Real Estate Syndicate of Lebanon (REAL) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to partner and collaborate in repairing houses damaged by the Beirut Port explosion that took place on 4 August 2020.
“The MoU aims at establishing a framework of cooperation within which UN-Habitat and REAL will work jointly to respond to the aftermath of the Beirut Port explosions, by lending their experience, expertise and resources in the housing sector. It also hopes to advance the dialogue on the overall complex housing situation in Lebanon, including ensuring the protection of housing, land and property rights” said Taina Christiansen, Head of Country Programme at UN-Habitat Lebanon.
The collaboration between UN-Habitat and REAL will be implemented with a clear division of tasks and responsibilities. Both parties will work together to provide available data on damaged houses requiring minor repairs, such as replacement of glazing, aluminium and doors; jointly assess identified houses to agree on repair works; and undertake necessary repairs.
“We are honoured to sign this MoU with UN-Habitat, to kick-start this cooperation to identify families that are truly in need and help them return to their homes before winter arrives and protect them from difficult weather conditions. We hope that this MoU will pave the way for future projects with UN-Habitat,” said Walid Moussa, President of REAL.
This MoU is part of a series of initiatives launched or supported by UN-Habitat following the Beirut Port explosions. Through adopting a “Build Back Better” approach, UN-Habitat reiterates its commitment to support those affected by the blast and beyond, within the wider response of the humanitarian and development community, and as part of the concerted and coordinated efforts of the United Nations family in Lebanon.
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About the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat)
UN-Habitat works in over 90 countries supporting people in cities and human settlements for a better urban future. Working with governments and local partners, its high impact projects combine world-class expertise and local knowledge to deliver timely and targeted solutions. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development includes a dedicated Goal on cities, SDG 11 – to make cities inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.
About Real Estate Syndicate of Lebanon (REAL)
REAL was established in Lebanon by Decree no.1/188 by the Ministry of Labour of Lebanon, as a not-for-profit representative body, functioning on a national scale, bringing together several brokers and consultants from different regions to ensure the representation, legitimacy and protection of the real estate sector.