Benghazi has officially launched the Global Platform for Competitive Urban Planning, an initiative spearheaded by the Libya Development and Reconstruction Fund. According to its organizers, the platform serves as “the cornerstone of a strategic vision for the renaissance of Benghazi,” aiming to transform the city into a global model for sustainable, smart, and inclusive urban development.
In his opening remarks, Belgasem Haftar, Director General of the Fund, stated that “this is not merely about launching a competition, but about establishing a genuine global partnership that unites ambitious visions and international expertise to shape a future worthy of Benghazi’s history and strategic role in the Mediterranean Basin.” He added that “development is not only about infrastructure and construction; it is also about hope, empowerment, and building a smart, sustainable, and economically prosperous city.”
The platform targets companies, universities, startups, consulting firms, and national and international institutions operating in urban planning, infrastructure, energy, logistics, culture, and services. It seeks to collect innovative ideas, projects, and solutions for the city’s future—aligned with national economic priorities and respectful of local cultural and social identity.
More than 500 exhibition pavilions will be dedicated to urban and architectural development concepts rather than commercial products. Project selection will be based on transparency, sustainability, and innovation, overseen by an impartial technical committee comprising local and international experts. All evaluation stages will be documented and published through a dedicated online platform to ensure credibility and neutrality.
The initiative’s objectives include developing a comprehensive urban development vision, a conceptual master plan, an integrated transport system, modern public spaces, and sustainable infrastructure solutions. It will also provide social and economic recommendations to stimulate investment, create job opportunities, and enhance the quality of life in Benghazi.
Haftar noted that “the Global Platform for Competitive Urban Planning aims to turn the nation’s dreams into tangible reality and open new horizons for sustainable investment and collaboration.”
The second phase of the initiative will include a major international exhibition hosted at the Fund’s headquarters, showcasing selected projects. Meanwhile, the Fund’s research team will analyze the proposals and integrate them into the city’s long-term strategic vision.
For more details and participation guidelines, the platform’s official website — www.urbanbenghazi.org