Since 2017, ADRA Lebanon and ADRA Slovakia have worked hand-in-hand to address the growing humanitarian needs in Lebanon, funded by SlovakAid and monitored by the Slovak Embassy in Beirut and ADRA Slovakia. This partnership has focused on providing essential WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) interventions, education support, and infrastructure improvements that have uplifted the lives of vulnerable Lebanese and Syrian refugees.
Throughout this period, there were frequent monitoring visits to project areas, ensuring the effectiveness and sustainability of the interventions. Notable visitors included H.E. Mrs. Ingrid Brocková, and Mr. Marek Varga, among others, who marked milestones such as the opening of the Baalbek Reservoir in May 2021. This event was attended by local partners, including the governor, municipality officials, and the Bekaa Water Establishment, highlighting the collaborative effort across sectors.
ADRA’s impactful collaboration with Slovakia was not limited to Lebanon. In July 2022, ADRA Lebanon staff traveled to Slovakia for finance training, demonstrating the mutual exchange of expertise between the two offices. Similarly, ADRA Slovakia made numerous visits to ensure that the projects were not only progressing but truly addressing the needs of the local and refugee populations.
Key Projects and Their Impact (2017-2024)
1. 2016-2017: Capacity Building for Humanitarian Management
In 2016, ADRA Slovakia sent Edita Bednárová, a project management expert, to ADRA Lebanon to support capacity building for seven months. Her work focused on strengthening the local team’s skills and enhancing their ability to manage humanitarian projects effectively. This marked the beginning of a deep-rooted partnership aimed at sustainable development.
2. 2019-2021: WASH Intervention in Baalbek
In response to the water scarcity in Baalbek, ADRA Slovakia and ADRA Lebanon initiated a WASH project that built a 500 m³ water tank, providing access to clean water for approximately 29,000 people, both Lebanese and Syrians. Complementing the infrastructure improvements, 118 people from informal settlements participated in water and sanitation awareness training. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the project also included the distribution of 70 disinfection packages to Syrian households, reinforcing the importance of hygiene during COVID-19.
3. 2019-2020: Education Support for Refugee Children
In 2019, volunteer Anna Hruboňová worked closely with ADRA Lebanon in Beirut, focusing on children’s education in Syrian refugee camps. Though her 10-month mission was shortened due to the pandemic, her contributions made a significant impact on improving access to education for refugee children.
4. 2021-2022: Sustainable WASH and Energy Infrastructure in Al Faour
This project addressed critical infrastructure needs in Al Faour village, where 9,375 people, including Syrian refugees and vulnerable Lebanese, benefited from the installation of 100 solar streetlamps, an elevated water tank, and latrines. These interventions not only improved safety and hygiene but also empowered local communities by training them in maintenance, ensuring long-term sustainability.
5. 2022-2024: Strengthening Critical WASH Infrastructure
From 2022 to 2024, ADRA Slovakia and ADRA Lebanon continued their impactful collaboration by focusing on WASH interventions in 6 municipalities, 2 informal settlements, and 10 schools in the Central Bekaa Union area. With a budget of 200,000 euros, the project distributed over 1,000 plastic water tanks, installed a solar-powered water supply system in refugee camps, provided garbage containers to Majdal Anjar municipality, and supported schools with heating fuel during the winter. This holistic approach to infrastructure support has improved the quality of life for over 7,000 vulnerable individuals in the region.
Humanitarian Aid Beyond Projects
The partnership between ADRA Lebanon and Slovakia also extended to material humanitarian aid. Together with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the European Affairs of the Republic of Slovakia, they secured a shipment of 80 parcels containing school bags, hygiene supplies, and water bottles for IDP children in Lebanon. This shipment was part of Slovakia’s official humanitarian aid and demonstrated the strong ties between the two countries in responding to Lebanon’s growing needs.
A Lasting Partnership for a Better Future
The collaboration between ADRA Lebanon and ADRA Slovakia, supported by SlovakAid and the Slovak Embassy, is a testament to the power of international partnerships in bringing about real change. From building essential infrastructure to empowering communities with skills and resources, this partnership has played a pivotal role in addressing some of the most pressing humanitarian challenges in Lebanon. As both agencies look toward the future, they remain committed to continuing their work in providing hope and improving the quality of life for the most vulnerable.
This partnership exemplifies how humanitarian efforts can transcend borders, fostering resilience, dignity, and hope for a brighter future in Lebanon.