(3 Minutes Read)
During a recent visit to Tunis, Philippe Orliange, Executive Director for Geographies at the French Development Agency (AFD), signed several funding agreements with Tunisian authorities totaling €54.5 million. These investments focus on three strategic priorities for Tunisia: improving access to drinking water, empowering vulnerable populations economically, and enhancing vocational training for youth.
The signing ceremony was held at the Ministry of Economy and Planning, attended by Minister Samir Abdelhafidh, SONEDE CEO Abdelhamid Mnajja, and French Ambassador Anne Guéguen.
AFD committed €42.5 million for critical water projects. This includes €12 million and €30 million in loans—co-financed with the European Investment Bank (EIB)—for expanding the Cap Bon–Sahel–Sfax water supply and securing water access for Greater Tunis. An additional €0.5 million grant will support the finalization of the region’s master plan for drinking water.
These projects aim to tap into surplus northern water resources, relieve pressure on inland aquifers, and meet growing urban demand. They include building treatment plants in Kalaa Kébira and Béjaoua, constructing reservoirs, and expanding pipeline infrastructure. The initiatives are expected to benefit nearly half of Tunisia’s population.
A €5 million budgetary support grant will strengthen Tunisia’s Economic Empowerment Program, launched in 2022 to assist low-income households and individuals with disabilities. Managed by the Ministry of Social Affairs, the program provides grants and tailored entrepreneurial support. AFD’s contribution is expected to double the program’s reach, focusing on regions most affected by poverty and mobility constraints.
To combat youth unemployment—currently at 37.7% among 15–24-year-olds—AFD and France’s Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs are jointly investing €7 million in vocational training. The initiative, launching in December 2025, will modernize two pilot training centers in Sousse and Grombalia, transforming them into hubs of excellence.
The program targets 1,800 trainees, aiming for full employment within a year of graduation. It also supports the reintegration of 100 returning migrants, strengthens 10 training programs, and covers infrastructure upgrades, instructor training, and international mobility opportunities.
Read Also:
https://trendsnafrica.com/frances-suez-group-to-invest-in-water-treatment-and-sanitation-in-tunisia/
Philippe Orliange’s visit underscores France’s commitment to Tunisia’s development priorities and strengthens coordination with partners such as EIB, SONEDE, and national ministries. The funding package reflects a results-driven approach, blending social investment with productive sector support.
In a context marked by water stress, social pressure, and high youth unemployment, the initiative is designed to deliver both immediate improvements and long-term resilience. As Orliange stated, “These funds only make sense through effective implementation.” Minister Abdelhafidh echoed this, highlighting the breadth and alignment of Franco-Tunisian cooperation with Tunisia’s national goals.
From essential infrastructure to social inclusion and job readiness, the €54.5 million package moves beyond planning to deliver real-world impact for Tunisian communities.
