The Tunisian government has signed two guarantee agreements with the African Development Bank (AfDB) worth a total of 698 million dinars. The agreements were signed by Minister of Economy and Planning Samir Abdelhafidh and AfDB's Deputy Director General for Tunisia Malinne Blomberg on September 22. The funds will be used to support upgrades to the country's water supply network and chemical sector.
The first agreement provides 111.5 million euros, approximately 377 million dinars, to the Société nationale d'exploitation et de distribution des eaux (SONEDE). The funding will go towards improving the technical and energy efficiency of the Greater Tunis water supply network. The goal is to enhance the network's efficiency and ensure a secure water supply.
The AfDB had previously approved the funding for SONEDE before the guarantee agreement was signed. The total project cost is estimated at 151.1 million euros, with contributions from the European Union and SONEDE. The project aims to address the country's water supply challenges and improve the overall performance of the network.
The second agreement provides $110 million, approximately 321 million dinars, to the Groupe chimique tunisien (GCT). The funding will support environmental upgrades and modernization of the group's production units. The project aims to reduce pollution and improve environmental and energy performance at GCT's facilities in Gabès, Skhira, and M'Dhilla.
Minister Abdelhafidh emphasized that the two projects align with Tunisia's 2026-2030 development plan priorities, including water and energy security, food security, and environmental protection. He also highlighted the importance of supporting strategic public enterprises to improve their efficiency and effectiveness.
AfDB's Malinne Blomberg reaffirmed the bank's commitment to supporting Tunisia's development goals. She noted that the two projects will contribute to improving water and food security, reducing pollution, and enhancing living standards. The signed agreements represent a significant step in implementing the AfDB's previously approved funding commitments.
The two funding agreements demonstrate the AfDB's continued support for Tunisia's economic and social development. The projects are expected to have a positive impact on the country's water supply, energy efficiency, and environmental sustainability.
Key points
- Tunisia secures 698 million dinars in funding from AfDB for water and chemical sector upgrades.
- Funding to improve water supply network in Greater Tunis and modernize Groupe chimique tunisien.
- Projects align with Tunisia's 2026-2030 development plan priorities.
