SRTF Director General Highlights Syrian Recovery Efforts at International Meeting
On November 25, 2025, Eng. Hani Khabbaz, Director General of the Syria Recovery Trust Fund (SRTF), addressed the D-ISIS Coalition – Stabilisation Working Group Meeting in Berlin, Germany. He emphasized the urgent need for continued donor support in stabilizing communities liberated from Daesh control and highlighted the SRTF’s pivotal role in facilitating the return and reintegration of internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Al-Hol Camp to their communities in Northeast Syria.
Multifaceted Approach to Recovery
Mr. Khabbaz outlined the SRTF’s multifaceted approach to recovery,
which involves a multi-phase, multi-sector intervention strategy. This approach aims to revive essential services such as water, sanitation, healthcare, and electricity while supporting communities through shelter rehabilitation and livelihood creation.
Phase I Successes and Looking Ahead
The Director General provided a detailed overview of the recently completed Phase I of the “Stabilising Communities of Return” initiative in Deir-ez-Zor Governorate. This phase successfully rehabilitated 1,000 houses, with 302 belonging to returning families from Al-Hol Camp. Through Cash-for-Work (CfW) programs, over 2,000 individuals, including more than 30% returnees from Al-Hol, were provided livelihood assistance. Additionally, 850 homes were equipped with backyard and hydroponic garden kits, with 265 kits specifically allocated to returning families.
Building on this success, Mr. Khabbaz announced the planning of Phase II. This phase will focus on rehabilitating 1,300 homes, expanding CfW opportunities to 3,000 beneficiaries, and supplying 1,000 homes with backyard and hydroponic garden kits.
A Decade of Impact and Efficiency
“The SRTF `s work over the past 10 years epitomizes remarkable achievements in the field of humanitarian aid,” said Khabbaz. He emphasized the Fund’s unique status as an effective multi-donor initiative characterized by a well-functioning and accountable governance structure. This structure, he said, has enabled the SRTF to establish an exceptional track record of efficiency and cost-effectiveness with remarkably low overhead costs.
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What are the main challenges faced by communities liberated from Daesh control in Syria?
## Interview: Syrian Recovery Trust Fund Director General on Stabilisation Efforts
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Today we have Eng. Hani Khabbaz, Director General of the Syria Recovery Trust Fund, joining us to discuss the SRTF’s critical work in Syria. Thank you for being with us, Mr. Khabbaz.
**Khabbaz:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** You recently addressed the D-ISIS Coalition’s Stabilisation Working Group in Berlin, where you highlighted the SRTF’s role in aiding communities liberated from Daesh control. Can you tell us more about the situation on the ground and the challenges you face?
**Khabbaz:** The situation remains extremely challenging. Despite significant progress in liberating areas from Daesh, these communities are still struggling to recover. They face a lack of basic services like clean water, sanitation, and healthcare. Millions remain internally displaced, yearning to return home.
**Host:** The SRTF’s work is crucial in addressing these challenges. Can you elaborate on your multi-phase, multi-sector approach to recovery?
**Khabbaz:** Absolutely. Our strategy focuses on a holistic approach, recognizing that recovery requires addressing multiple aspects simultaneously. We prioritize reviving essential services like water and sanitation, supporting livelihoods through agricultural and economic recovery programs, and facilitating the safe and dignified return of internally displaced persons.
**Host:** You specifically mentioned the Al-Hol Camp and the SRTF’s efforts to facilitate the return of IDPs. Can you tell us more about this initiative?
**Khabbaz:** Al-Hol Camp houses a large population of internally displaced persons, many of whom are eager to return home. The SRTF is working closely with local partners to ensure safe, voluntary, and dignified returns, providing support with housing, essential services, and social integration.
**Host:** The SRTF relies heavily on donor support. What message do you have for the international community regarding the ongoing need for funding?
**Khabbaz:** Continued donor support is absolutely vital to sustain our efforts and ensure the long-term recovery of Syria. The needs are vast, and the challenges are complex. We urge the international community to remain committed to supporting the Syrian people in rebuilding their lives and communities.
**Host:** Thank you, Mr. Khabbaz, for sharing your insights into the crucial work being done by the SRTF. We wish you and your team continued success in your endeavors. [[1](https://uatweb.usaid.gov/syria/fact-sheets/syria-recovery-trust-fund)]