The Tunisian government has set a goal to expand its highway network to 1,323 kilometers by 2035, up from the current 743 kilometers. The Ministry of Equipment and Housing is leading the effort, which also includes increasing the network of fast roads to 2,000 kilometers. This initiative aims to improve connections between regions and facilitate transportation.
The Minister of Equipment and Housing, Salah Zouari, presented the ministry's objectives during a joint hearing session at the Assembly of People's Representatives on November 7, 2026. He stated that the programmed highway network totals 1,323 kilometers and estimated that this goal could be achieved by 2035, thanks to the progress of studies, land acquisition procedures, and securing necessary funding.
Several highway projects are currently underway or about to start. One major project is the highway connecting Jilma to Kasserine and Gafsa. Work on the Tunis to Jilma section is ongoing, while the ministry is working on liberating the land needed for other sections. The highway project towards Kef is also advancing, with land acquisition procedures launched and credits allocated in the 2026 budget.
The highway project connecting Bou Salem to Fernana, spanning around 40 kilometers, is another significant initiative. Studies have been completed, and land procedures are ongoing. Funding is available from the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development, following a recent loan agreement. Work is expected to start soon.
In addition to highways and fast roads, the ministry plans to develop, modernize, and reinforce approximately 4,750 kilometers of national, regional, and local roads to international standards. The current Tunisian road network represents around 20,000 kilometers. The ministry will continue programs for maintenance, extension, and rehabilitation, considering traffic evolution and regional needs.
The minister emphasized that progress in land procedures and funding mobilization are essential conditions for accelerating major road projects. The realization of these projects should improve connections between regions and facilitate transportation. The program concerns not only highways but also fast roads, with 1,447 kilometers currently in use, aiming to reach 2,000 kilometers by 2035.
The financing of some projects is ensured by international institutions, such as the Islamic Development Bank, which has approved a loan offer for the highway project towards Kef. The Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development has also agreed to provide funding for the Bou Salem to Fernana highway project. These projects are expected to significantly improve Tunisia's road infrastructure.
Key points
- The Tunisian government aims to increase its highway network to 1,323 km by 2035.
- The ministry plans to develop, modernize, and reinforce approximately 4,750 kilometers of national, regional, and local roads.
- Several highway projects are currently underway or about to start, including the highways connecting Jilma to Kasserine and Gafsa, and Bou Salem to Fernana.
