Regional Development Plan 2026-2030: Ministry of Economy and Planning Launches Initiative in Kasserine
During a regional forum in Kasserine, the Minister of Economy and Planning, Mr. Samir Abdel Hafez, gave the green light for the development of the 2026-2030 regional development plan, benefiting the third region, which comprises the governorates of Kasserine, Kairouan, Siliana, Sousse, Monastir, and Mahdia.
In Line with Constitutional Provisions and Regional Development Goals
In his speech, Mr. Abdel Hafez explained that the 2026-2030 development plan is part of the implementation of the Constitution's provisions, particularly Chapter Seven, as well as various legal and regulatory texts. These texts emphasize the role of regional councils in contributing effectively to the formulation of development orientations, programs, and projects, which will achieve economic and social integration and equitable regional development within the framework of national unity.
The Crucial Role of Elected Local and Regional Councils
The Minister highlighted the importance of elected local and regional councils in ensuring the success of this new approach, which relies essentially on real and progressive participation in the plan's development to reflect the legitimate aspirations of Tunisians to improve their regions' economic and social conditions.
Diagnostic Analysis and Identification of Regional Development Challenges
Mr. Abdel Hafez stressed the need for an in-depth diagnostic analysis of the development situation in the regions and identifying the real problems hindering them. He emphasized the importance of focusing on the regions' strengths and capacities and finding ways to utilize them effectively within the framework of integration. In this context, he called for considering all available means and formulas to exploit these advantages, whether through public or private investments or collective initiatives, represented by private enterprises.
Careful Selection of Programs and Projects
The Minister insisted on the importance of carefully selecting programs and projects, emphasizing their economic, social, and environmental returns, as well as their territorial specificities. He also highlighted the need to consider their integrative character while ensuring the country's financial balance.
Respecting the Preparation Timeline and National Efforts
Mr. Abdel Hafez emphasized the importance of respecting the preparation timeline and the available deadline, which requires intensified efforts at all levels, from local to regional, provincial, and national, to achieve a final version of the plan by the end of 2025. He stressed the need for public authorities, at local, regional, and central levels, to support elected councils in exercising their functions under the best possible conditions, providing them with necessary means and mechanisms, such as studies, statistics, and data.
