Last week the interim government launched a tender process for a 10-year waste processing and collection contract covering most major Libyan towns and cities. Although there is no timetable for when the contract may be awarded, it cannot start soon enough.

Some waste collection services have resumed in 2012, but they have not been able to clear the backlog of rubbish from many areas, especially outside of city centres. Local civil society groups have tried to take action in particular neighbourhoods, but the smell of burning rubbish and the sight of litter strewn along seafronts or roadsides remains all too common.

The announcement also reflects what many people feel should be the first priority of any future government – delivering tangible improvements to basic services and infrastructure across the country.