The United Nations Development Programme’s Accelerator Lab in Libya held a Hackathon competition in Tripoli. Young people gathered to spark out-of-the box innovative ideas on how to tackle the solid management challenge in Libya.

“This is a great initiative and we, the youth, really need this kind of push, so that we have a say in solving the most important challenges that Libyans are facing in their daily life. We want to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, preserve the environment, and help our country to reach a better future,” said one of the participants, Samia Ali Ammoura, member of O2 organization. “Youth participation ensures a new, different and innovative perspective, since we are familiar with modern and digital technologies,” she added.

 “This event allows programmers to link their skills with bringing solutions to Libya waste crisis. It’s a great start to thinking outside the box,” said another participant, Amira Izrune, a member of Zero Waste Libya organization.

 For 24 hours, young people presented their ideas and projects on technical devices that can be used to segregate waste. The winner idea is an App with numerous functions to be used by the solid waste companies, municipalities and regular people to communicate and improve the services.

“I was tired to see garbage in the street around my neighborhood, which also was causing diseases within my community. That is why I created this App that can help the garbage collecting companies communicating directly with the citizens. This award gives me an incentive to continue thinking in an innovative way to provide other technical solutions to tackle more challenges in Libya,” said Abdul Majeed Al Alqubtan, winner of the competition.

The Hackathon was organized by UNDP’s Accelerator Lab in Libya to recognize the strength of youth-led initiatives and the impact of home-grown ideas to achieve peace, development and stability through innovation in the country.

“When young people have the opportunity to participate, all can see very clear that they have the power to transform their communities, help promote peace and contribute to achieve sustainable development in Libya,” said Mr. Gerardo Noto, UNDP Resident Representative in Libya.

With support from UNDP’s Accelerator Lab, Abdul Majeed, will be developing his App and implementing it in Libya involving local authorities, waste management companies and the end users.