The Algerian province of Tizi-Ouzou has taken a significant step towards resolving the impasse surrounding the Souama industrial zone, a project that has been stalled for seven years. The provincial assembly, APW, has unanimously adopted a resolution to compensate occupants of the zone, who were registered in a cadastral operation conducted between 2007 and 2009. This move is expected to unlock the project and enable its completion.
The Souama industrial zone, spanning 327 hectares, is a crucial development project for the region, with the potential to create 150,000 direct jobs. The project's delay has been widely criticized, with all stakeholders agreeing that its realization is essential for the area's economic growth. The APW's president, Youcef Aouchiche, described the blockage of the zone as an "economic crime" and emphasized the need for a collaborative approach to resolve the issue.
Aouchiche stressed that the compensation of occupants is not equivalent to recognizing their property rights, which falls under the jurisdiction of judicial authorities. The APW's resolution aims to provide a legitimate basis for the authorities to take action and move forward with the project. The assembly's proposal, adopted unanimously, was put forward by the investment, local development, equipment, and employment commission.
An allocation of 245 billion centimes has been set aside for expropriation operations, while a total of 932 billion has been earmarked for studies, development, and compensation of landowners who can provide valid judicial documents. The wali of Tizi-Ouzou expressed regret over the project's delay, citing opposition from occupants who demanded compensation without presenting valid documents.
The occupants, on the other hand, have been seeking recognition of their land ownership, completion of the cadastral operation, and issuance of land books. The RCD party's elected officials had advocated for these demands before the adoption of the resolution, which provides for compensation to occupants based on the 2007-2009 census. This approach is seen as a way forward for the project.
The APW's resolution marks a significant step towards resolving the impasse, with all stakeholders appearing to agree on the need to move forward. The project's realization is expected to have a positive impact on the region's economy and development. Further progress will depend on the effective implementation of the compensation plan and the collaboration of all parties involved.
The Souama industrial zone project has been hampered by disputes over land ownership and compensation, but the APW's resolution offers a glimmer of hope for its completion. With the necessary funds allocated and a clear plan in place, the project can now move forward, creating much-needed jobs and stimulating economic growth in the region.
Key points
- The Algerian province of Tizi-Ouzou has approved a resolution to compensate occupants of the Souama industrial zone.
- The project has been stalled for seven years due to disputes over land ownership and compensation.
- The zone has the potential to create 150,000 direct jobs and stimulate economic growth in the region.
