The Tunisian Association for SOS Children's Villages has seen a substantial rise in the number of children benefiting from its programs, from approximately 8,000 at the beginning of the year to 12,500 as of September 2026. According to Mohamed Mekdiche, head of the association, the organization aims to support 14,000 children by the end of the year. This growth is part of the association's efforts to expand its activities to 12 governorates and establish new offices and branches across the country.
The association's long-term goals are ambitious, with Mekdiche mentioning the possibility of supporting 20,000 children by 2027. He emphasized that the number of children in need of care in Tunisia exceeds 30,000, and the association's objective is to reach as many as possible while helping their families achieve financial independence within four to five years. The association's programs focus on providing holistic care and support to ensure the well-being and dignity of the children.
Regarding children residing in SOS villages, Mekdiche noted that their numbers have decreased from around 350 to approximately 240. He stressed that the ultimate goal is to reintegrate these children into their family and natural environments whenever possible. The association prioritizes adopting integrated curricula in childcare and providing equal opportunities for children across different regions of Tunisia.
Mekdiche highlighted the association's history, noting that from 1981 to 2013, it received significant support from the International Federation and partner associations in several European countries. Since then, the association has gradually gained independence, with 2019 being a crucial year in assuming financial and administrative responsibilities. The Tunisian government provided a subsidy of 5 million dinars in 2019, which covered about 50% of the association's budget.
The association has made significant strides in mobilizing local resources, exceeding its budgetary needs. Between 2019 and 2026, it secured approximately 34 million dinars in resources, which has enabled it to expand its programs and support more children. Mekdiche views this as a testament to the importance of community solidarity and the need for childcare programs in Tunisia.
Mekdiche expressed pride in the success of Tunisia's experience in caring for vulnerable children, attributing it to years of support and the commitment of Tunisian professionals in social and humanitarian work. He emphasized that Tunisia has become a leading country in this field and that children in Africa, the Arab world, and Palestine remain a priority for humanitarian efforts.
The association's efforts are part of a broader commitment to supporting vulnerable children globally. Mekdiche stressed that caring for childhood is a national, human, and international responsibility, and Tunisia's engagement in these issues reflects its commitment to humanitarian work and solidarity with children worldwide. The association's work serves as a model for collaboration and cooperation in addressing the needs of children in need.
Key points
- The Tunisian Association for SOS Children's Villages aims to support 14,000 children by the end of 2026 and 20,000 children by 2027.
- The association has seen a significant increase in the number of children benefiting from its programs, from 8,000 to 12,500 between January and September 2026.
- The association prioritizes reintegrating children from SOS villages into their family and natural environments whenever possible.
