September 2023 Floods-Temporary Information

Info as of 14 September 2023

Communications: The storm knocked out internet and telecoms. Floods cut off the submarine cable linking Libya to Europe. A government telecoms service is restored in some areas. Satellite phones work. Local mobile coverage returned to 80% in many areas and full coverage of Almadar is expected in the coming days.

The telecommunication infrastructure in the main cities is quite good, but it still poor in the south.  Telecommunication is controlled by the General Authority for Communication and Information. However, there are private companies provide telecommunication services such as internet services.  For mobile, individuals are allowed to register to SIM cards under their names, they just need to provide photo and copy of their passport.   

For more information on telecoms contacts, please see the following link: 

4.11 Libya Additional Services Contact List

Telecommunications Regulations 

Importing of telecommunication equipment is subject to getting the clearance from the General Authority for Telecommunication and Informatics (GATI).   

VHF, HF communication frequencies and VSAT need to be licensed by GATI.  UHF Tetra equipment and network must be arranged with the Local Tetra official Provider.  Thuraya and Inmarsat Equipment should only be provided through local providers. Iridium equipment are not allowed as Iridium Network is not approved to work inside Libya.  

Existing Humanitarian Telecoms Systems 

Humanitarian telecoms systems are in place and managed by UNSMIL.  

Internet Service Providers (ISPs) 

Reliable internet services are available in Libya. Mainly in Tripoli, Benghazi and other big cities, but still poor in the south.  Libya telecom & technology (LTT) is a pioneer company in internet and the first internet service provider in Libya.  Aljeel Aljadeed for technology is another service provider that provides the internet services in several technology (Fiber, ADSL ,Wireless). 

Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) 

There are two mobile providers’ companies in Libya. The services and mobile coverages are good and reliable in the main cities inside Libya, fair/poor in the south. 

For information on MNOs please visit the GSM Association website.