Tunisia's regional authorities have launched a crackdown on unlicensed childcare centers in the governorate of Mahdia. On October 2, 2026, Governor Eissa Moussa chaired a working session to review the status of private kindergartens and school nurseries in the region. The meeting aimed to assess their compliance with legal, regulatory, and health requirements.
The session was attended by several stakeholders, including owners of private childcare institutions, who raised concerns about unfair competition from unlicensed centers. These unlicensed centers are set up informally and operate outside the legal framework, posing risks to children's safety and well-being. Governor Moussa emphasized the importance of protecting children and ensuring they are cared for in institutions that meet legal, health, and educational standards.
The Governor also stressed the need to protect licensed childcare institutions from unfair competition, promoting a level playing field for all stakeholders. To address these issues, the authorities agreed to intensify monitoring and inspection efforts, accelerate administrative and legal procedures, and coordinate with relevant agencies to ensure children's protection and improve the sector's organization.
The authorities have vowed to take necessary measures to regulate the sector and prevent unlicensed centers from operating. Governor Moussa highlighted the importance of collaboration between different agencies and stakeholders to ensure the well-being and safety of children. The working session was attended by several officials, including members of the National Council for Regions and Districts.
The Governor of Mahdia emphasized that the region's authorities attach great importance to the childcare sector, in line with the state's policies and orientations in this field. He called for continued cooperation and implementation of existing legislation and regulations to guarantee children's safety, protect licensed institutions, and enhance the quality of services provided.
The meeting was also attended by Hassen Houssni Mezali, a member of the National Council for Regions and Districts, and other officials from the regional delegation for women's affairs, family, and childhood. The authorities aim to ensure that childcare institutions operate within the legal framework, providing a safe and healthy environment for children.
The crackdown on unlicensed childcare centers is part of a broader effort to regulate the sector and ensure that children receive quality care. The authorities will continue to work with stakeholders to address the challenges facing the sector and provide support to licensed institutions.
Key points
- The Tunisian authorities have launched a crackdown on unlicensed childcare centers in the governorate of Mahdia.
- The authorities aim to ensure that childcare institutions operate within the legal framework, providing a safe and healthy environment for children.
- The sector is being regulated to prevent unfair competition and ensure children's safety and well-being.
