Sofiane Oumellal, the head of the APC of Afir, Algeria, has outlined the major objectives of his program two years into his tenure. Upon taking office, Oumellal and his team identified key concerns of the citizens, including the pressing issue of water scarcity. The region has struggled with this problem since Algeria's independence. To address this, the APC launched several projects to develop water supply networks.
These projects have led to a significant reduction in the water shortage problem, with a 70% resolution rate that has benefited almost all villages in the region. The APC identified the aging water conduits as a primary cause of the shortages, which were constructed many years ago and could no longer keep up with the region's growing population. Oumellal revealed that the APC aims to reinforce the water supply from Taksebt and the Cap Djinet desalination station.
The Cap Djinet desalination station currently pumps 2,000 cubic meters of water per day, but Oumellal estimates that 8,000 cubic meters are needed to fully address the crisis. However, this goal cannot be achieved under current circumstances. He announced that the region will receive its share of water from a new seawater desalination station to be launched in Tigzirt. Another priority for the APC is expanding sewage networks to cover the entire region.
Some villages still lack proper sewage systems, and residents continue to use septic tanks that pose health risks. As an example, the APC completed an 800-meter sewage network in Maafa at a cost of 4 million Algerian dinars. However, much work remains to be done, and the APC lacks sufficient financial resources to eliminate septic tanks. Oumellal called on the government to provide assistance in addressing this issue.
Improving school conditions is another focus area for the APC. Afir has nine primary schools, some of which initially lacked canteens. The APC has ensured that all primary school students receive a hot meal by acquiring prefabricated chalets and equipment for existing canteens. Additionally, the APC has addressed transportation challenges by acquiring five buses and allocating 400 million Algerian dinars for repairs and rehabilitation.
Despite these efforts, issues persist, and the APC has signed agreements with five private companies to transport students. Many schools require renovation, but the APC lacks the necessary funds. For instance, the APC partnered with the CFPA to repaint the Mohend Achour school at a lower cost while providing training for CFPA students. The APC has also tackled a significant problem with land cadastre errors.
The issue involved incorrect land surveys conducted by cadastre services in 2013 and 2014, affecting hundreds of property owners. Fifteen sections were identified, each containing over 400 errors. The APC has made progress in resolving this issue, with eight sections already rectified and the remaining seven undergoing evaluation by the national cadastre authority. Oumellal's efforts have involved collaboration with government officials and local representatives.
Key points
- The APC of Afir has made significant progress in addressing water scarcity and infrastructure challenges.
- A new seawater desalination station to be launched in Tigzirt will help alleviate the water crisis.
- The APC continues to face financial constraints in addressing issues such as sewage networks and school infrastructure.
