The Tunisian government's efforts to conserve water have yielded positive results, with the country's water distribution company, SONEDE, saving 5 million cubic meters of water in seven governorates. This achievement is part of a larger project aimed at improving the performance of SONEDE's water distribution networks, which was launched in 2021 and co-financed by the European Union. The project has made significant progress, achieving about a third of its target of saving 15 million cubic meters of water by 2029.
The European Union has provided a significant financial boost to the project, contributing 12.4 million euros, approximately 41.8 million Tunisian dinars. The program focuses on seven governorates in the south and center of Tunisia, including Kairouan, Kasserine, Sidi Bouzid, Gafsa, Gabes, Médenine, and Tataouine. These regions are considered disadvantaged and are expected to benefit from improved access to clean and sustainable drinking water.
The project aims to benefit around two million inhabitants by providing them with a better, more sustainable, and continuous water supply. By reducing water losses and conserving this precious resource, the program also seeks to alleviate the pressure on groundwater exploitation. This is particularly crucial in arid and semi-arid regions, where climate change has had a significant impact.
The program's objectives align with Tunisia's broader efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change. By reducing water losses and conserving water, the project also aims to decrease carbon dioxide emissions associated with water production and distribution. This initiative is part of a larger strategy to promote sustainable development and protect the environment in Tunisia.
The project is being implemented in two phases, with the ultimate goal of saving 15 million cubic meters of water. The program's success will not only improve access to drinking water but also contribute to the country's economic development. By ensuring a more efficient use of water resources, Tunisia can reduce its reliance on costly water treatment and pumping systems.
According to the European Union delegation in Tunisia, the project's progress is encouraging, with 5 million cubic meters of water saved so far. This achievement demonstrates the effectiveness of the program and the importance of international cooperation in addressing Tunisia's water challenges. The EU's financial support has been instrumental in driving this progress.
The project's impact will be closely monitored, and its success will be evaluated based on its ability to achieve its objectives. If successful, the program could be replicated in other regions of Tunisia, helping to address the country's water scarcity challenges. The Tunisian government has emphasized the importance of water conservation, and this project is a significant step towards achieving this goal.
Key points
- The project aims to save 15 million cubic meters of water by 2029.
- The European Union has provided 12.4 million euros in funding for the project.
- The program will benefit around two million inhabitants in seven governorates.
