On September 20, 2026, Algerian President Abdel Majid Tebboune, who is also the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces and Minister of National Defense, chaired a cabinet meeting. The meeting covered several key topics, including a review of the basic law for civil protection personnel and their compensation system. The President emphasized the importance of supporting civil protection services with necessary infrastructure and personnel to effectively perform their duties.
President Tebboune commended the government's efforts in compensating victims of recent wildfires, particularly in the state of Jijel, which was severely affected. He instructed the government to complete any remaining compensation procedures as soon as possible. The President also expressed his gratitude to the public and government for their solidarity with those affected by the wildfires, assuring that the state will continue to support them.
The President announced a decision to support and fix the cost of Hajj pilgrimage at 82 million centimes per pilgrim, despite an increase of around 7 million centimes this season. This move aims to alleviate the financial burden on Algerian pilgrims. Additionally, the President ordered the preparation of a presidential decree on a secure digital connectivity plan between state institutions and sectors.
The digital connectivity plan aims to enhance data exchange and sharing between institutions while ensuring maximum protection for citizens' data. The President also emphasized the need for digital connectivity between states to facilitate the registration of local data more efficiently. This initiative is expected to improve governance and public services in Algeria.
President Tebboune reviewed the basic law for civil protection personnel and their compensation system, recognizing the need for updates in light of climate change and emerging risks. He ordered a comprehensive review of the law, including a general increase in salaries for civil protection personnel, revision of the rank hierarchy, and enhancement of compensation for personnel working in the field and their families.
The President also emphasized the importance of continuous training for civil protection personnel throughout their careers to maintain high levels of effectiveness and readiness. He ordered the technical and technological modernization of field equipment and the development of a plan for their renewal. Furthermore, the President instructed the government to establish a system for monitoring and controlling forest fires, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture.
The cabinet meeting also discussed the 2025-2026 harvest and crop yields. President Tebboune instructed the Minister of Agriculture to prepare a monthly newsletter and assign governors to closely monitor production levels and quantities of various crops, particularly wheat. The President also emphasized the need for digitalization of the agricultural sector, including the immediate payment of agricultural products to national agencies.
Key points
- The Algerian government has committed to completing compensation procedures for wildfire victims and supporting civil protection services.
- A new digital connectivity plan will be implemented to enhance data exchange between state institutions and sectors.
- The President has ordered a comprehensive review of the basic law for civil protection personnel, including salary increases and enhanced compensation.
