On October 29, 2026, Tunisian Agriculture Minister Azeddine Ben Sheikh emphasized the need for a new investment approach to address climate change challenges. Speaking at the "Climate Financing for a Resilient Tunisian Agriculture" forum, Ben Sheikh highlighted the pressing issues of climate change, including droughts, water scarcity, and rising temperatures, which significantly impact agricultural production and food security. He stressed that a climate-resilient approach is crucial for sustainable economic development.
The minister noted that Tunisia faces growing challenges, including frequent droughts, declining water resources, and rising temperatures, which directly affect agricultural productivity and farmers' incomes. Ben Sheikh emphasized the importance of investing in water-saving technologies, modern and smart farming techniques, and renewable energy. He also highlighted the need to improve soil fertility, adopt climate-resilient crops, and enhance digitalization and value chain efficiency in the agricultural sector.
Ben Sheikh underscored that climate financing is essential for mobilizing resources to support the transition to a more resilient and adaptable agricultural sector. He estimated that Tunisia needs approximately $55 billion in climate financing from 2026 to 2036, with around $29 billion allocated for adaptation, including $8 billion for agriculture and food systems. The minister emphasized the importance of international cooperation and private sector engagement to mobilize these funds.
The minister highlighted the role of the Agricultural Investment Promotion Agency (AIPA) in promoting sustainable investment and supporting investors. He noted that AIPA's accreditation by the Green Climate Fund (GCF) as a national entity for direct access to climate financing is a strategic achievement. This accreditation will enable Tunisia to mobilize climate financing and channel it towards priority agricultural projects.
Ben Sheikh called for the development of projects that improve water efficiency, conserve natural resources, and promote renewable energy. He also emphasized the need to support innovation in agricultural value chains and expand climate financing to small-scale investors, farmers, women, and youth in rural areas. The minister stressed that a comprehensive and equitable climate transition is essential for Tunisia's sustainable development.
The minister urged stakeholders to enhance coordination, develop a pipeline of priority projects, and improve information exchange and partnerships between public institutions, the private sector, banks, and development partners. He emphasized that effective partnerships are crucial for improving access to climate financing and ensuring its optimal utilization.
Ben Sheikh concluded that investing in a climate-resilient Tunisian agriculture sector is essential for food security, natural resource conservation, and national economic development. He expressed hope that the forum would lead to actionable recommendations and partnerships that would transform climate challenges into opportunities for investment, innovation, and sustainable development.
Key points
- The Tunisian government aims to mobilize $55 billion in climate financing from 2026 to 2036 to support its climate commitments.