In collaboration with the governorate services, the Coastal Protection and Development Agency organized an information day today to present the details of the coastal protection and development project for Bizerte’s coastline against marine erosion. This meeting was held under the supervision of Bizerte’s governor, Salem Ben Yacoub, with the presence of all relevant parties at both regional and national levels, including representatives from civil society.
In his opening speech, the governor emphasized that this project is of national, regional, and local importance, stressing that protecting the coastline from marine erosion has become urgent in order to avoid negative impacts on infrastructure, economic activities, tourism, and the environment.
He also reminded everyone of the importance of synergy between various stakeholders to ensure the success of the project, stressing the need for transparent communication with citizens and involving civil society representatives as a source of proposal, oversight, and support for state efforts.
Mehdi Belhaj, acting director general of the Agency, clarified that this information day aims to highlight this major project, with the first phase estimated at around 40 million dinars. He also emphasized the importance of public consultation bringing together state representatives and civil society to ensure the successful integration of the project.
The meeting provided a clear and scientific presentation of the technical and logistical aspects of the first phase through study and technical assistance offices, focusing on components, execution methods, financing, as well as environmental and social impacts.
Technical works will begin in September 2025, covering approximately 7 km, including the construction of « rocky groins, » an artificial sand deposit of 700,000 m³ from the seabed — a first in Tunisia — as well as the installation of windbreaks, dune stabilization, and other developments.
This project will complement and enhance another project already completed by the Directorate General of Air and Maritime Services at the Ministry of Equipment, worth around 6 million dinars.
According to the same official, Tunisia is one of the countries most exposed to marine erosion, according to a report by the World Bank. The agency is therefore working to address this phenomenon ecologically, through the rehabilitation of beaches in various regions such as Sousse, Monastir, Bizerte, Soliman, Rafraf, and Mami Beach.
The information day included a detailed presentation of the project, the adopted strategy, and long discussions between experts, technical and administrative officials, and civil society representatives. The project was praised for its components and the collaborative approach adopted.
Also attending the event were the Secretary General of the Governorate, Lobna Obeid, the Director General of Maritime and Air Services at the Ministry of Equipment, Nadia Kouider, the Delegate of Bizerte North, Samia Bouallag, MPs Fethi Mchergui and Sami Toujani, as well as the Vice-President of the National Council of Regions and Districts, Zakia Maaroufi, members Alya Bejaoui and Kais Louati, and other representatives from regional councils, local authorities, and administrative officials.
