Tunisian Agriculture Minister Azeddine Ben Cheikh conducted a site visit to the Saida Dam project in the Wadi Al-Layl region of Manouba Governorate on October 6, 2026. The project, which has a total cost of approximately 214 million dinars, aims to create a strategic water reserve. During the visit, Ben Cheikh was briefed on the project's progress, its various components, and the technical and logistical challenges faced.
The Saida Dam project is a key component of Tunisia's water management strategy, designed to transfer excess water from the north to the Greater Tunis area, the northeast, and the northern regions. The dam is expected to have a storage capacity of 45 million cubic meters, significantly enhancing the country's water resources and supporting the supply of drinking water.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture, the project is approximately 92% complete, with ongoing work focused on completing the remaining components and finalizing the project's infrastructure. Ben Cheikh emphasized the importance of adhering to technical specifications, quality standards, and safety protocols to ensure the project's successful completion and optimal operation.
The Saida Dam project is a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening Tunisia's water security. The project involves the construction of a dam, a spillway, and associated infrastructure, including networks for water transfer and filling, as well as pumping stations. The project's completion is expected to have a positive impact on the country's water resources and support the development of the region.
During his visit, Ben Cheikh thanked the teams involved in the project's implementation, including engineers, technicians, and workers, for their dedication and commitment to completing this strategic project. He acknowledged the efforts made by all stakeholders and expressed his appreciation for their hard work and responsibility throughout the project's various stages.
The project's progress was evaluated during the visit, with a focus on the remaining work and the measures needed to ensure its successful completion. Ben Cheikh reiterated the importance of accelerating the project's completion while maintaining high standards of quality and safety.
The Saida Dam project is expected to play a vital role in Tunisia's water management strategy, enhancing the country's water resources and supporting the supply of drinking water to its population. The project's completion will also contribute to the country's economic development and improve the overall quality of life for its citizens.
Key points
- The Saida Dam project has a total cost of approximately 214 million dinars and aims to create a strategic water reserve of 45 million cubic meters.
- The project is approximately 92% complete, with ongoing work focused on completing the remaining components and finalizing the project's infrastructure.
- The Saida Dam project is a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening Tunisia's water security and supporting the development of the region.
