Palestinian cancer patient Alaa Al-damagh makes model vehicles from wood at his workshop in Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip.

The 41-year-old says he likes to fashion diggers and other construction vehicles to take his mind off his troubles.

This clip was captured on January 3 in Beit Lahia.

RESTRICTION SUMMARY: Beit Lahia, 03 January 2022. Palestinian cancer patient Alaa Al-damagh, 41, makes art sculptures and and creative furniture from wood at his workshop in Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip.

0.1 SOUNDBITE (in Arabic) Alaa Al-damagh

STORYLINE:

The economy in Gaza has been in recession since May’s escalation and this will remain the case unless a real and actual reconstruction plan is implemented. Reaching this point [phase 2 of reconstruction] will mean recruiting large numbers of Palestinian workers, which will reduce unemployment. Major investment will be made, thus contributing to an economic recovery or at least halting the growing economic deterioration

Footage by/APAwire