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The World Bank has approved two projects worth $332.5 million to strengthen water security, improve irrigation and support rural livelihoods in Tunisia.
The projects form the first phase of the Tunisia Water Security and Resilience Programme, a multi-phase initiative with a total financing envelope of $700 million over 10 years, according to a World Bank press statement.
Irrigation and agriculture
The $124 million Irrigation Water Security, Resilience and Value-Addition Project will rehabilitate irrigation infrastructure across Jendouba, Béja, Bizerte and Siliana governorates.
The project aims to improve irrigation services, strengthen operator performance and support farmers in adopting climate-smart technologies and accessing higher-value markets.
It is expected to directly benefit around 4,000 farmers through improved irrigation services and 9,000 farmers through agricultural support programmes, while generating approximately 3,400 permanent jobs and 7,000 temporary construction jobs.
Potable water
The $208.5 million Potable Water Security and Resilience Project will enhance drinking water services and strengthen the operational performance of SONEDE, the national water utility of Tunisia.
Key components include the expansion of the Zarat seawater desalination plant in Gabès from 50,000 cubic metres per day (m3/day) to 100,000 m3/day, as well as the installation of 100,000 smart meters and rehabilitation of water distribution networks in Sfax, Tozeur and Kebili to reduce losses.
The project is expected to benefit around 2.3 million people, including 224,000 who will gain continuous water supply and 440,000 who will experience improved water quality. It is also projected to create around 600 permanent jobs and 6,000 temporary jobs.
Long-term programme
Future phases of Tunisia Water Security and Resilience Programme are set to focus on sanitation infrastructure, including wastewater collection, treatment and reuse, with national sanitation utility ONAS expected to play a central role.
(Writing by Majda Muhsen; Editing by Anoop Menon)
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