Tunisian Parliament Examines Loan Agreement for National Sanitation Program
The Assembly of People's Representatives (ARP) began examining the draft law no. 89 of 2024 on Monday, which aims to approve a loan agreement concluded in June 2024 between the National Sanitation Office (ONAS) and the French Development Agency (AFD). This loan will contribute to the financing of the sixth phase of the National Sanitation Program for Popular Neighborhoods (PNAQP6).
Loan Agreement Details
The agreement provides for a loan of €50 million (approximately 165.75 million dinars) and a grant of €1 million to improve sanitation infrastructure in 139 neighborhoods, benefiting nearly 261,000 inhabitants. The project, scheduled for completion in December 2030, aims to improve living conditions, reduce territorial disparities in sanitation, and protect the environment and natural ecosystems.
Repayment Terms
The loan will be repaid over 20 years, with a 7-year grace period, at an interest rate determined for each drawdown.
Targeted Regions
This sixth phase will primarily focus on the priority governorates of the interior, including:
- 9 neighborhoods in Sidi Bouzid
- 6 neighborhoods in Kasserine
- 3 neighborhoods in Gafsa
- 12 neighborhoods in Médenine
- 16 neighborhoods in Gabès
Project Benefits
The project will also connect:
- 40 schools (approximately 20,000 students)
- A center for people with disabilities
- 18 basic health centers to the public sanitation network and internal wastewater network
Furthermore, it will put an end to the anarchic management of wastewater in a protected area and four humid zones.
Program Background
Launched in 1982, the National Sanitation Program has improved infrastructure in 1,146 neighborhoods across 24 governorates, benefiting 1.4 million residents, during its first five phases. The French Development Agency has financed the last three phases of this program.
