Tunisia's Environment Minister Habib Ebaid has announced the establishment of an inter-ministerial committee to oversee efforts to protect the Medjerda River basin from various sources of pollution. The committee, which will operate under the supervision of President Kais Saied, comprises representatives from the ministries of interior, agriculture, environment, and health. According to Ebaid, the committee's creation underscores the government's commitment to addressing environmental concerns in the region.
The Medjerda River basin has long faced significant environmental challenges, including pollution from industrial and agricultural activities. Minister Ebaid emphasized the importance of addressing these issues to restore the river's ecological health. During a recent visit to the region, Ebaid inspected several sites and met with local stakeholders to discuss potential solutions. He stressed the need for collaboration between government agencies, local authorities, and private sector entities to effectively address environmental degradation in the area.
As part of the government's efforts to address environmental concerns, the Ministry of Environment conducted 124 inspection visits to industrial facilities in 2025. These visits resulted in the identification of 97 environmental violations. Ebaid stated that his ministry will take necessary legal actions, including issuing fines and warnings, against entities found to be non-compliant with environmental regulations.
The inter-ministerial committee's establishment is part of a broader strategy to promote sustainable development and environmental protection in Tunisia. The committee will work to identify areas of concern, develop mitigation strategies, and monitor progress. Ebaid emphasized that the committee's work will be crucial in ensuring that environmental regulations are enforced and that polluters are held accountable.
In addition to addressing environmental concerns, the Tunisian government has been working to promote sustainable development and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. A project aimed at reducing emissions from waste management in the Medjerda River basin was also inspected by Ebaid during his visit. The project seeks to promote environmentally friendly waste management practices and reduce the environmental impact of industrial activities.
The creation of the inter-ministerial committee has been welcomed by environmental stakeholders in Tunisia. The committee's work is expected to contribute to improved environmental governance and more effective enforcement of environmental regulations. Ebaid emphasized that his ministry remains committed to working with local communities, civil society organizations, and the private sector to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable development.
Moving forward, the inter-ministerial committee will play a critical role in monitoring environmental violations and promoting sustainable practices in the Medjerda River basin. The committee's establishment reflects the Tunisian government's commitment to addressing environmental concerns and promoting sustainable development.
Key points
- The Tunisian government has established an inter-ministerial committee to monitor and address environmental violations in the Medjerda River basin.
- The committee will comprise representatives from the ministries of interior, agriculture, environment, and health.
- The Ministry of Environment conducted 124 inspection visits to industrial facilities in 2025, resulting in the identification of 97 environmental violations.
