SRTF Director General Outlines Syria Stabilization Efforts and Calls for Continued Donor Support
In a recent meeting of the D-ISIS Coalition – Stabilisation Working Group in Berlin, Eng. Hani Khabbaz, Director General of the Syria Recovery Trust Fund (SRTF), presented a compelling update on the Fund’s critical work in Northeast Syria.
Khabbaz underscored the SRTF’s transformative initiatives, highlighting the urgent need for sustained donor engagement to foster stability in communities liberated from Daesh. He emphasized the SRTF’s crucial role in supporting the safe and dignified return and reintegration of internally displaced persons (IDPs) returning from Al-Hol Camp to their communities in Northeast Syria.
Focusing on a multi-phase, multi-sector approach, the SRTF’s intervention strategy targets both returnees and communities of return. The strategy focuses on restoring essential services like clean water, sanitation, healthcare, and electricity; rehabilitating shelters for displaced families; and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Khabbaz presented a detailed overview of Phase I of the “Stabilising Communities of Return” project in Deir-ez-Zor Governorate, highlighting its notable achievements. Phase I successfully rehabilitated 1,000 houses, with 302 belonging to returnees from Al-Hol Camp. Over 2,000 individuals received livelihood support through Cash-for-Work (CfW) activities, with over 30% being returnees from Al-Hol.
Furthermore, 850 homes received backyard and hydroponic garden kits, with 265 kits provided to returnees from Al-Hol. The DG then outlined the plans for Phase II, which will focus on rehabilitating 1,300 homes, providing CfW opportunities for 3,000 beneficiaries, and supplying 1,000 homes with backyard and hydroponic garden kits.
Beyond these community-focused efforts, Khabbaz underscored the SRTF’s decade-long track record of success across a wide range of programs, emphasizing its unique status as a highly effective multi-donor initiative.
” The SRTF boasts a well-functioning and accountable governance structure that has established an exceptional track record of efficiency and cost-effectiveness,” he stated. “Our low overheads allow us to maximize the impact of every donation.”
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What are some of the major challenges the SRTF faces in its efforts to support the return and reintegration of IDPs from Al-Hol Camp?
## Interview: SRTF’s Vital Role in Syria’s Northeast
**Narrator:** Joining us today is Eng. Hani Khabbaz, Director General of the Syria Recovery Trust Fund (SRTF), with a timely update on their critical work in stabilizing Northeast Syria. Welcome, Mr. Khabbaz.
**Khabbaz:** Thank you for having me.
**Narrator:** You recently addressed the D-ISIS Coalition – Stabilization Working Group in Berlin. Can you tell us about the SRTF’s key initiatives in Northeast Syria, especially those focused on the safe return and reintegration of IDPs from Al-Hol Camp?
**Khabbaz:** Absolutely. We believe that fostering stability in communities liberated from Daesh is paramount. The SRTF actively facilitates the sustainable return of internally displaced persons, like those from Al-Hol Camp, back to their Northeastern communities. This involves not just physical return but ensuring a dignified and safe reintegration process. We work on providing essential services like access to healthcare, education, and livelihood opportunities, which are crucial for rebuilding lives and communities.
**Narrator:** What are some of the major challenges the SRTF faces in its efforts, and what kind of support is needed to overcome them?
**Khabbaz:** The challenges are complex and multifaceted. We face ongoing security concerns, a dire economic situation, and the immense needs of a population affected by years of conflict. Sustained donor engagement is absolutely crucial. The SRTF relies on the generous contributions of our partners to continue its work. Consistent funding allows us to implement long-term solutions and create a lasting impact on the ground.
**Narrator:** Looking ahead, what are the SRTF’s priorities for the region?
**Khabbaz:** Our focus remains on fostering resilience and self-reliance within these communities. We will continue to prioritize initiatives that address the root causes of displacement and instability while empowering communities to lead their own recovery. The SRTF is committed to working alongside local partners and the international community to build a brighter future for Northeast Syria.
**Narrator:** Thank you for sharing your insights, Mr. Khabbaz. Your work is truly invaluable in stabilizing this crucial region.
**Khabbaz:** Thank you for having me.