AGP Executive Report

Libya-UK Health Talks: Libya’s Health Minister Mohamed Al-Ghouj met the UK Ambassador in Tripoli to expand healthcare cooperation, including workforce training, better facility management, and support for local pharmaceutical manufacturing and health insurance development. Mental Health & Sport: Libya pushed “football diplomacy” at a UN event on mental health and sport, arguing the game can strengthen wellbeing and help communities connect—especially for young people. Mediterranean Heat Risk: Sea surface temperatures off Tunisia and Libya are running 5–6°C above normal, with some areas reaching 31–33°C, raising concerns about more unstable autumn weather and severe storms. Digital Health Vulnerability: A new study flags Libya as the world’s most vulnerable country to major internet outages, warning that weak electricity and reliance on a single internet exchange point could disrupt hospitals and essential services. Migrant Health Crisis in Libya: A BBC investigation says over 300 migrants kidnapped in Libya were tortured and threatened with forced kidney removal, with at least one death reported; survivors describe extreme overcrowding and deprivation. Wildlife Smuggling Threat: Libya’s wildlife protection group warns that smuggling wild animals could spark disease outbreaks and calls for urgent investigations and stronger port controls.

Mental Health & Sport: Libya pushed “football diplomacy” at a UN event on “Mental Health and Football,” saying the sport can support wellbeing and help communities connect, especially young people. Healthcare Cooperation: Libya’s Health Minister met the UK ambassador in Tripoli to expand healthcare collaboration, including workforce training, facility management, and support for local pharmaceutical manufacturing and health insurance. Digital Health Risk: A new study flags Libya as the world’s most vulnerable country to major internet disruption, warning that weak electricity and reliance on a single internet exchange point could disrupt hospitals and other essential services. Migrant Health & Safety: A BBC investigation says more than 300 migrants held in Libya were kidnapped, tortured, and threatened with forced kidney removal; survivors report extreme overcrowding and deprivation. Public Health & Disease Threat: Libya’s Wildlife Protection Society warned against wildlife smuggling, saying animals like chimpanzees and gorillas could carry diseases that spark outbreaks. Migration Abuse Response: Libyan security forces arrested a Somali suspect in a migrant kidnapping cell in Tajoura and sent rescued captives for medical treatment.

Migrant Health & Safety in Libya: A BBC investigation says over 300 migrants trying to reach the UK were kidnapped in Libya, tortured, and threatened with forced kidney removal, with ransom demands of $5,000 per person; at least one hostage died and many remain unaccounted for. Local Enforcement: In Tajoura, Libyan security forces arrested a Somali suspect tied to a migrant kidnapping cell, rescued two captives who were abused, and said victims were filmed and pressured for ransom before being taken for medical treatment. Digital Health Risk: A new study ranks Libya as the world’s most vulnerable country to major internet outages, warning that weak electricity and reliance on a single internet exchange point could disrupt hospitals, banking, and border services. Public Health in Conflict: WHO warns that conflict, outbreaks, food insecurity, and shrinking funding are worsening the Eastern Mediterranean Region’s health crisis, with Sudan highlighted as the biggest emergency and medical supply chains strained by renewed strikes. Wildlife Disease Threat: Libya’s wildlife protection group warns that smuggling wild animals could trigger epidemics, urging investigations and tighter port controls to protect public health.

Livability & Health Access: Damascus was ranked the world’s least liveable city in 2026, with Tripoli also near the bottom—an index that weighs stability, healthcare, education, infrastructure and environment. Digital Health Risk: A new study flags Libya as the world’s most vulnerable country to major internet disruption, warning that hospitals, banking and government services could stall if connectivity fails. Migrant Safety in Libya: A BBC investigation says more than 300 migrants kidnapped in Libya were tortured and threatened with forced kidney removal; separately, Libyan security forces arrested a Somali suspect in a Tajoura migrant kidnapping cell and sent rescued captives for medical treatment. Public Health Under Strain: WHO warns conflict, disease outbreaks, food insecurity and funding cuts are worsening the Eastern Mediterranean crisis, with Sudan highlighted as the biggest emergency and medical supply chains hit by renewed strikes. Wildlife Disease Threat: Libya’s wildlife protection group warns that smuggling wild animals could trigger epidemics and calls for stronger port controls and investigations. Food Safety & Nutrition: A global food-systems review says unsafe food causes 866 million illnesses and 1.5 million deaths yearly, with young children hit hardest.

Eastern Mediterranean Health Watch: WHO says escalating conflicts, disease outbreaks, food insecurity and shrinking funding are worsening the public health crisis across the region, with Sudan flagged as the biggest emergency (30.4M needing help; 13.5M displaced) and renewed fighting disrupting medical supply chains. Libya Health & Safety: Libya’s Agricultural Police in Suluq shut livestock markets in Suluq and Qaminis after a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak; veterinary teams recorded cattle deaths and sent samples for testing, while authorities disinfected markets and warned vaccines are usually timed for later in the year. Public Health at the Border: UN experts warn of alleged mass detention, expulsion and trafficking linked to the Tunisia–Libya border system, raising major risks for migrants’ health and access to care. Migrant Health After Violence: Libyan security forces arrested a Somali suspect in a migrant kidnapping cell in Tajoura, rescued two captives who were taken for medical treatment after severe abuse, and said legal procedures are underway. Wildlife Disease Risk: Libya’s wildlife protection group warns against smuggling wild animals (including chimpanzees and gorillas), saying they can carry dangerous diseases that could trigger outbreaks and threaten health and environmental security. Health in Conflict Zones: ICC warnings highlight the risk of mass atrocities in Sudan’s El-Obeid, with humanitarian conditions deteriorating fast—an urgent reminder of how quickly health systems can collapse in sieges.

Terror & Justice: Libya-linked health concerns are indirect this week, but regional security still shapes access to care: a Federal High Court in Abuja sentenced two senior Ansaru commanders to life imprisonment for terrorism, kidnapping-for-ransom, and financing offences. Migrant Health & Safety: Libyan security forces in Tripoli arrested a Somali suspect in a migrant kidnapping cell in Tajoura, rescued two abused captives, and sent them for medical treatment after perpetrators allegedly filmed torture to pressure families. Public Health (Livestock): In Suluq, authorities declared a field emergency after suspected foot-and-mouth disease, closing livestock markets in Suluq and Qaminis, disinfecting facilities, collecting samples, and reporting cattle deaths while noting vaccines are usually timed for later in the year. Wildlife Disease Risk: The Libyan Wildlife Protection Society warned that smuggling wild animals could trigger disease outbreaks, urging investigations and tighter port controls to protect public health. Travel & Access to Care: The US updated its global “Do Not Travel” list to Level 4 for 23 countries including Libya, citing extreme security risks and limited consular support. Sports & Wellness: Libya’s Football Federation submitted bids to host AFCON in 2028, 2032, and 2036, aiming to boost tourism and public morale.

Migrant Health & Safety: Libyan security forces in Tripoli arrested a Somali suspect in a migrant kidnapping cell in Tajoura, rescuing two foreign nationals who were reportedly tortured and filmed to pressure relatives; the victims were taken for medical treatment while the case moves to the Public Prosecutor. Public Health Threats (Livestock): In Sulouq, authorities declared a field emergency after suspected foot-and-mouth disease, closing livestock markets in Sulouq and Qaminis, disinfecting facilities, and collecting samples after dozens of cattle deaths were reported. Wildlife & Disease Risk: The Libyan Wildlife Protection Society warned that smuggling wild animals like chimpanzees and gorillas could spark epidemics, urging an immediate investigation and tighter port controls to protect public health. Health System Capacity (Energy): Tunisia’s heatwave-driven power demand is forcing rolling power cuts, a reminder that electricity reliability directly affects hospitals and care services across the region. Libya Policy & Access: The US updated a global “Do Not Travel” list that includes Libya, citing extreme security risks and limited consular support.

Wildlife & Public Health: The Libyan Wildlife Protection Society warns that smuggling wild animals—especially chimpanzees and gorillas—could spark disease outbreaks, urging an immediate independent investigation and tighter port controls. Migrant Health & Safety: Libyan security forces arrested a Somali suspect in a migrant kidnapping cell in Tajoura, rescuing two captives who were taken for medical treatment after severe abuse. Disease Watch (Livestock): In Suluq, authorities launched an emergency response to suspected foot-and-mouth disease after cattle deaths; livestock markets in Suluq and Qaminis were closed and disinfection is underway while samples are sent to labs. Border Abuse & Care Access: UN experts report a systematic pattern of arbitrary detention, abuse, expulsion and trafficking at the Tunisia–Libya border, including denial of medical care and alleged deaths. Travel & Risk Context: The US issued a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory for 23 countries, including Libya, citing extreme security risks and limited consular support. Health Systems Pressure (Energy): Tunisia’s heatwave has triggered rolling power cuts to protect the grid, a reminder that outages can quickly disrupt hospital and essential services.

Migrant Safety in Libya: Libyan security forces arrested a Somali suspect in Tajoura after dismantling a kidnapping-for-ransom gang; two foreign captives were rescued and taken for medical treatment, with authorities saying torture footage was used to pressure families. Public Health (Livestock): In Sulouq, authorities declared a field emergency after suspected foot-and-mouth disease; livestock markets in Suluq and Qaminis were closed, disinfection began, and veterinary teams collected samples after dozens of cattle deaths were reported. Travel & Health Access: The US issued a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory covering 23 countries, including Libya, citing extreme security risks and limited consular support—an issue that can directly affect medical access for travelers and families. Regional Migration Abuse: UN experts warned of systematic arbitrary detention, abuse, collective expulsion and trafficking at the Tunisia–Libya border, including reports of denial of food and medical care and deaths in detention. Healthcare Workforce: WHO opened its Global Internship Programme to citizens of all 194 member states, including African countries, offering placements across headquarters and country offices.

Livability & Health Access: The Economist Intelligence Unit’s 2026 Global Livability Index crowned Copenhagen #1 and put Tripoli among the world’s least livable cities (172nd), citing weak stability and healthcare—an indirect warning for public health and service delivery. Travel Safety & Public Health: The US State Department expanded its Level 4 “Do Not Travel” list to 23 countries, including Libya, citing extreme security threats and limited consular help. Libya’s Humanitarian Pressure: UN experts warned of a systematic pattern of arbitrary detention, collective expulsion and trafficking at the Tunisia–Libya border, with reports of beatings, rape, denial of food and medical care, and possible mass graves. Disease Watch (Livestock): In Suluq, authorities launched a foot-and-mouth disease response after cattle deaths; livestock markets in Suluq and Qaminis were closed and disinfection began. Migration Health Risks: Bangladesh repatriated 171 nationals from Libya, many reportedly abused and tortured after being lured by traffickers. Cancer Care (Regional): AstraZeneca Egypt and NEMAG held an immuno-oncology summit in Cairo with participation from Libya and other regional countries.

Migrant health crisis at Libya’s borders: UN experts say more than 7,400 people, mostly from sub-Saharan Africa, have faced a systematic pattern of arbitrary detention, collective expulsion and trafficking at the Tunisia–Libya border and inside Libya since June 2023, with reports of beatings, rape, confiscated phones and identity papers, and denial of food and medical care. Human trafficking “survival” conditions: A new report highlights how migrant cages and abuse in Libya continue, with UN and IOM describing an exploitative model that turns desperation into profit. Disease watch in Libya: Sulouq authorities declared a field emergency after a suspected foot-and-mouth disease outbreak among cattle; markets were closed and disinfection and lab sampling are underway. Public health and safety abroad affecting Libyans: The WHO opened its Global Internship Programme to citizens of all 194 member states, including Libya, while the US issued a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory that includes Libya, citing serious risks and limited consular help. Healthcare innovation: AstraZeneca Egypt and NEMAG held an immuno-oncology summit in Cairo with participation from Libya and other regional countries, focusing on cancer care advances.

US Travel Advisory: The US State Department added Uganda to its highest-risk Level 4 “Do Not Travel” list, bringing the total African countries on the warning to 10, with Libya included among them. Animal Health: In Sulouq, authorities declared a field emergency after a suspected foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in cattle, closing livestock markets and launching disinfection while lab samples are taken. Migration & Rights at Borders: UN experts say more than 7,400 migrants have faced arbitrary detention, collective expulsion and trafficking linked to the Tunisia–Libya border since 2023, with reports of beatings, rape, and denial of food and medical care. Public Health & Safety: A new UK campaign warns of deadly methanol poisoning risks at 29 holiday hotspots, urging travelers to watch for symptoms and avoid contaminated alcohol. Libya Health Policy: Libya’s Mufti criticized state-funded “Summer Days” entertainment, arguing public money should go to urgent needs like medicine shortages and electricity outages. Healthcare Access: WHO opened its Global Internship Programme to citizens of all 194 member states, including Libya, with placements across Switzerland and country offices.

Foot-and-Mouth Response in Sulouq: Libya’s Sulouq authorities declared a field emergency after suspected foot-and-mouth disease in cattle, closing livestock markets and launching disinfection while vets investigate deaths and send samples to labs. Health, Power, and Heat Stress: Tunisia is using rolling power cuts as a heatwave pushes electricity demand over 30% above normal, risking wider outages until temperatures ease. Migration and Health Risks at the Border: UN experts warn of a system of arbitrary detention, abuse, collective expulsion and trafficking at the Tunisia–Libya border, including denial of food and medical care and reports of rape and deaths. Libya Detention Aftercare: Bangladesh repatriated 171 nationals from Libya, many held in Benghazi’s Ganfouda Detention Centre, with reports of abduction and torture during irregular migration. Public Health Capacity: WHO opened its Global Internship Programme to all 194 member states, including eligible African countries, offering hands-on placements in public health roles. Cancer Care Collaboration: AstraZeneca Egypt and NEMAG held an immuno-oncology summit in Cairo with regional participation, focusing on improving cancer outcomes through multidisciplinary care.

Public Health & Ethics: Libya’s Mufti, Sheikh Al-Sadiq Al-Gharyani, criticized state-funded “Summer Days” entertainment, saying public money is being wasted while medicine shortages, price hikes, and electricity outages persist, and he questioned the religious legitimacy of bringing singers and even the reported use of a presidential aircraft for performers. Migration & Health Risks: UN experts say more than 7,400 people have faced a systematic pattern of arbitrary detention, collective expulsion, and trafficking at the Tunisia-Libya border and inside Libya since June 2023, with reports of beatings, rape, and denial of food and medical care. Medical Education: Libya’s Higher Committee for Medical Colleges submitted a final draft to the Ministry of Higher Education in Benghazi, aiming for a unified national vision, updated curricula, and stronger training for medical and health sciences colleges. Health Security & Access: AstraZeneca Egypt and NEMAG held the first Immuno-Oncology Summit in Cairo, bringing together oncology experts from across the region, including Libya, to discuss cancer care advances and multidisciplinary treatment. Migration Crisis (Libya): Security sources report at least 50 migrants died after a wooden boat capsized off Libya’s eastern coast; survivors were taken to hospital.

Border Rights Crisis: UN experts say over 7,400 migrants, refugees and asylum seekers have faced a system of arbitrary detention, abuse, collective expulsion and trafficking at the Tunisia–Libya border since June 2023, with reports of beatings, rape, denial of food and medical care, and possible mass graves near military sites. Migration Health & Safety: Libya-linked Mediterranean tragedies continue, including reports of at least 50 migrants dead after a boat capsized off Libya’s eastern coast, with survivors taken to hospital. Medical Education in Libya: Libya’s Higher Committee for Medical Colleges submitted a final draft to the Ministry of Higher Education to unify and upgrade medical and health sciences curricula across universities. Public Health Warning: The UK has expanded methanol poisoning warnings for 29 holiday destinations, highlighting the risk of counterfeit alcohol causing blindness and death. Repatriation Support: 171 Bangladeshi nationals detained in Libya were voluntarily repatriated from Benghazi to Bangladesh with IOM support, including assistance for victims of trafficking and torture. Health Travel Context: The US keeps Libya under Level 4 “Do Not Travel,” citing severe risks and limited ability to assist Americans.

Medical Education Reform in Libya: Libya’s Ministries of Higher Education and Health agreed to set up joint task forces to upgrade medical training, strengthen skills for doctors and allied health workers, and support teaching hospitals to better meet the country’s workforce needs. Public Health & Animal Health: Libya’s Agricultural Police confirmed a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in Msallata’s Al-Amamra area after lab tests, reporting deaths in livestock and triggering quarantine, disinfection, and a temporary ban on moving animals. Migration Health Crisis: Reuters reports at least 50 migrants feared lost after a wooden boat capsized off eastern Libya; 10 survived and were taken to a local hospital, while earlier Tobruk rescues recovered bodies and saved others. Medical Colleges Draft in Benghazi: Libya’s Higher Committee for Medical Colleges delivered a final draft to the Ministry of Higher Education in Benghazi, aiming for a unified national vision, updated curricula, and stronger standards for medical and health sciences education. Travel Safety Signal: The U.S. renewed its “Do Not Travel” stance for Libya, citing severe security and health-related risks and limited emergency support.