AGP Executive Report

Coastal Resilience Plan: Tunisia’s Environment Minister Habib Abid says development works are planned along the whole coastline from Bizerte to Djerba, including Sidi Bou Saïd, Gammarth and Carthage-Salambo, with a major push at Bizerte’s Corniche beach (about 100 million dinars total; first phase ~40 million dinars over nearly 7 km, with groynes and sand nourishment). Severe Weather Watch: The National Institute of Meteorology has put 19 governorates under yellow alert as unsettled conditions bring heavy rain, hail risk and strong winds (gusts over 80 km/h in storms), with expected rainfall totals of 30–50 mm in areas including Bizerte, Greater Tunis, Nabeul, Sousse, Kairouan and Kef. Solar Push: Tunisia awarded contracts for 455 MW of solar projects in the sixth authorization round (309 projects total), spanning many governorates including Kébili, Gabès, Sidi Bouzid, Kairouan and Kef. Heat Record Reminder: Scientists report August was Earth’s hottest month on record, driven by human-caused warming plus a strong El Niño. Water Crisis Context: Tunisia’s summer shortages and power cuts left many residents queuing for mineral water, highlighting pressure on water and electricity systems. Press Freedom Under Strain: Tunisian journalists protested the arrest of investigative reporter Mohamed Yousfi on money-laundering and illicit enrichment charges, raising fresh concerns about intimidation of independent voices.

Coastal Development Push: Tunisia’s Environment Minister Habib Abid says the whole coastline from Bizerte to Djerba is set for development works, including a major Corniche beach redevelopment in Bizerte (about 100 million dinars total, with a first phase using dredged sand and rock groynes). Weather Watch: Tunisia’s INM placed 19 governorates under yellow alert as unsettled conditions bring heavy rain risk, hail in places, strong winds over 80 km/h during storms, and possible blowing sand in the south. Renewables Rollout: Tunisia awarded contracts for 309 solar projects totaling 455 MW under its sixth authorization round, with many sites across central and southern governorates. Wind Power Planning: In Kébili, officials reviewed the environmental and social impact assessment for a wind plant in Tabbaga covering about 7,138 hectares, aligned with national renewable targets. Climate Alarm: Scientists report August was Earth’s hottest month on record, driven by human-caused warming plus a strong El Niño. Water & Heat Stress Context: Tunisia’s summer shortages—water and power cuts during extreme heat—continue to shape public pressure and daily life. Press Freedom Tensions: Tunisian journalists protested the arrest of investigative reporter Mohamed Yousfi, raising fresh concerns about intimidation and legal pressure on independent voices.

Coastal Development Push: Tunisia’s Environment Minister Habib Abid says the whole coastline from Bizerte to Djerba will be developed under President Kais Saïed’s instructions, with works planned for areas including Sidi Bou Saïd, Gammarth and Carthage-Salambo; the Bizerte Corniche beach redevelopment is set at about 100 million dinars total, with a first phase covering nearly 7 km using groynes and sand nourishment plus a 600-metre promenade. Renewables Rollout: The Industry Ministry awarded contracts for 309 solar projects totaling 455 MW under the sixth authorization round, spanning governorates from Kébili and Gabès to Sousse, Sfax and Kasserine. Wind Power in Kébili: Kébili officials reviewed the environmental and social impact assessment for a wind plant in Tabbaga covering about 7,138 hectares, aligned with Tunisia’s renewable targets and carbon neutrality goals. Heat Stress Warning: Veterinary services warn of heat stress for livestock—especially poultry, rabbits and dairy cows—between Sept 7-13 as temperatures may reach 41°C, urging farmers to boost water, ventilation and shade. Weather Watch: Siliana, Kef and Kasserine are under a yellow alert for thunderstorms and stronger winds, while a low-pressure system later this week could bring heavy rain, hail and flash-flood risk across parts of the Maghreb including Tunisia. Water Shortage Fallout: Tunisia’s summer of shortages saw mineral water distribution rise to 2.3 million bottles daily in Tunis supermarkets after severe water and power cuts linked to extreme heat and grid stress. Climate-Ready Forecasting: Korea’s meteorological agency will transfer advanced weather prediction tools and AI models to Tunisia and four other African nations to strengthen early warnings for severe weather.

Press Freedom Under Pressure: Tunisian journalists protested the arrest of investigative journalist Mohamed Yousfi, detained after he was preparing to enter Express FM Radio, with authorities citing illicit enrichment and money-laundering charges that his lawyer says lack concrete evidence. Severe Weather Watch: Tunisia’s meteorology service issued a yellow alert for Siliana, Kef and Kasserine as thunderstorms and stronger winds are expected, with risks of rain-related impacts. Heat Stress for Livestock: The veterinary services warned farmers about heat stress from Sept 7–13, with temperatures forecast up to 41°C and higher humidity, urging more water, ventilation and shade for poultry, rabbits and dairy cows. Renewables Push: Tunisia awarded contracts for 309 solar projects totaling 455 MW under its sixth authorization round, with many sites in southern and central governorates. Wind Power Review: Kébili officials reviewed the environmental and social impact assessment for a wind plant covering about 7,138 hectares as part of the national renewables strategy. Water Shortages Story: A report revisits Tunisia’s summer of shortages, linking water and power cuts to grid stress and the knock-on effects for daily life. Clean Tech From Sand: Researchers in Tunisia turned desert sand into mesoporous silica nanoparticles that can destroy a textile dye in 30 minutes under simulated sunlight, pointing to faster, safer pollution-fighting methods.

Weather Watch: Tunisia’s National Institute of Meteorology has issued a yellow alert for Siliana, Kef and Kasserine, warning of thunderstorms, scattered rain and stronger winds later today, with a risk of weather-sensitive disruptions. Heat & Livestock: The Veterinary Services warn of heat stress for poultry, rabbits and dairy cows from Sept 7–13, with temperatures expected up to 41°C and higher humidity—urging farmers to boost water, shade and ventilation. Renewables Push: Tunisia awarded contracts for 455 MW of solar projects under its sixth authorization round, spanning many governorates and including multiple sites in Kébili. Climate-Smart Farming Cooperation: Tunisia and ACSAD discussed expanding technical and research cooperation, including joint projects to adapt to climate change and improve livestock breeds for arid conditions. Energy Transition Planning: In Kébili, officials reviewed the environmental and social impact assessment for a planned 7,138-hectare wind power plant as part of the national renewables strategy. Governance & Rights: Tunisian journalists protested the arrest of investigative editor Mohamed Yousfi, with unions and rights groups alleging a broader crackdown on independent media.

Press Freedom Under Pressure: Tunisian journalists protested outside a court demanding the release of investigative journalist Mohamed Yousfi, detained after he was stopped while heading to a radio interview; critics say the illicit enrichment and money laundering charges are being used to intimidate independent voices. Extreme Weather Watch: Tunisia’s National Institute of Meteorology issued a yellow alert for Siliana, Kef and Kasserine as thunderstorms and stronger winds are expected, with risks of localized hazards. Water & Heat Stress: Veterinary services warned of heat stress for livestock from Sept 7–13, with temperatures forecast up to 41°C and higher humidity, urging farmers to boost cooling, ventilation and clean water access. Renewables Push: Tunisia awarded contracts for 309 solar projects totaling 455 MW under its sixth authorization round, with many sites in southern and central governorates. Climate & Agriculture Cooperation: Tunisia met ACSAD to expand technical and research cooperation, including joint projects to adapt to climate change and support arid-zone agriculture. Early Warning Capacity: Korea’s meteorological agency will transfer numerical weather prediction and AI tools to Tunisia and other African nations to strengthen early warning systems.

Water & Power Strain: Tunisians describe a summer of shortages as daily life was hit by water rationing and long STEG power cuts, with 2.3 million bottles of mineral water reportedly being distributed daily in major supermarkets. Heat & Livestock Risk: The veterinary services warn of heat stress for poultry, rabbits and dairy cows from Sept 7–13, with temperatures forecast up to 41°C and higher humidity. Weather Watch: Siliana, Kef and Kasserine are under a yellow alert for thunderstorms, scattered rain and stronger winds. Renewables Push: Tunisia awarded contracts for 309 solar projects totaling 455 MW under the sixth authorization round, with many sites in southern and central governorates. Wind Power Review: Kébili reviewed the environmental and social impact assessment for a wind plant in Tabbaga covering about 7,138 hectares. Climate & Research Cooperation: Tunisia met ACSAD to expand technical and research cooperation, including joint projects to adapt to climate change and support agriculture. Press Freedom Under Pressure: Journalist Mohamed Yousfi was detained as he arrived for a radio interview, with charges cited as illicit enrichment and money laundering, prompting calls for his release. Early Warning Capacity: Korea’s meteorological agency will transfer numerical weather prediction and AI models to five African nations, including Tunisia, to strengthen early warning systems. Cybersecurity Measures: The PM issued a circular requiring stronger protection of public digital systems, including hosting rules, HTTPS, multi-factor authentication and annual audits. Solar Degradation Breakthrough: Researchers turned desert sand into mesoporous silica nanoparticles that can destroy a textile dye in 30 minutes under simulated sunlight.

Renewables in Kébili: The Kébili governorate reviewed the environmental and social impact of a new wind power project in the Tabbaga area, spanning Souk Lahad, North Kébili and South Kébili, covering about 7,138 hectares, as Tunisia targets 35% renewables by 2030 and 50% by 2035. Heat warning for livestock: Tunisia’s veterinary services warned farmers about heat stress from Sept 7–13, with temperatures forecast at 30–41°C and higher humidity, urging more clean cool water, better ventilation and shade for poultry, rabbits and dairy cows. Weather watch: Tunisia’s meteorology institute said conditions should stay mostly stable early in the week, with local thunderstorms on Tuesday and possible disturbances from Thursday. Water and press freedom under strain: A Tunisian judge ordered the detention of investigative journalist Mohamed Yousfi as he arrived for a radio interview, with the journalists’ union and rights groups warning of shrinking press freedom. Tourism push with sustainability angle: A study by IACE says Tunisia can grow greener, less seasonal tourism by developing five underused niches, projecting up to 2.7 billion dinars by 2030 and 21,500 jobs. Cyber protection in public services: The prime minister issued a circular requiring stronger cybersecurity for public websites and e-services, including hosting rules, HTTPS and multi-factor authentication.

Clean Tech & Water Pollution: Researchers in Tunisia turned desert sand into mesoporous silica nanoparticles that can destroy a textile dye in just 30 minutes under simulated sunlight, using a microwave-assisted process that avoids hazardous purification steps. Press Freedom Under Pressure: Tunisian authorities detained investigative journalist Mohamed Yousfi as he arrived for a radio interview, with charges cited as illicit enrichment and money laundering; the SNJT and rights groups warn this reflects shrinking space for independent media, including coverage of water issues. Heat & Human Rights: A Tunisian human rights group says 20 prisoners have died in detention amid extreme heat and poor ventilation, as authorities have not confirmed heat-related deaths. Renewables & Climate Finance: Tunisia’s 75 MW El Fahs wind farm in Zaghouan was selected for Japanese support under the JCM, aiming to boost low-carbon electricity generation. Sustainable Tourism Push: A study for Tunisia highlights five underused tourism niches—senior, health/wellness, rural guesthouses, luxury and short-term rentals—projecting up to 2.7 billion dinars by 2030 and 21,500 jobs. Digital Security: The Prime Minister issued a circular tightening cybersecurity rules for public institutions, including mandatory HTTPS and multi-factor authentication.

Press Freedom Under Pressure: Tunisia’s journalist Mohamed Yousfi was detained after arriving for a radio interview, with a judge ordering custody on charges of illicit enrichment and money laundering; the SNJT and rights groups say the case reflects a wider climate of intimidation, including questions tied to his investigative work on water issues. Heat & Human Rights: The Tunisian League for Human Rights says 20 prisoners died in detention in recent weeks amid extreme heat and poor ventilation, as authorities have not confirmed heat-related deaths. Energy Security & Climate Impacts: With summer power cuts disrupting water supplies, businesses are reportedly shifting toward self-generation, raising costs and pushing demand for backup equipment. Renewables Boost: Japan-backed support is moving ahead for Tunisia’s El Fahs 75 MW wind project under carbon-credit mechanisms, adding momentum to the country’s renewable pipeline. Tourism Diversification: A study by IACE flags five underused tourism niches—senior, health/wellness, rural guesthouses, luxury and short-term rentals—projecting up to 2.7 billion dinars by 2030 and 21,500 jobs. Digital Protection in Public Services: The prime minister issued a circular requiring stronger cybersecurity for public institutions, including secure hosting rules, HTTPS, multi-factor authentication, and regular system audits.

Press Freedom Under Pressure: Tunisia’s journalist Mohamed Yousfi was detained as he arrived for a radio interview, with a judge ordering custody on illicit enrichment and money-laundering charges; the SNJT says the reason was unclear and links it to his critical reporting, while rights groups warn Tunisia is shrinking space for independent media. Heat & Human Rights: A Tunisian human rights group says 20 prisoners have died in detention in recent weeks amid extreme heat, citing suffocation, poor ventilation and overcrowding; authorities have not confirmed heat-related deaths. Water, Power, and Daily Life: Reports highlight how summer power cuts are disrupting water supplies and pushing businesses to rely on generators, raising costs and deepening distrust in STEG. Renewables Boost: Japan-backed support is moving Tunisia’s wind and solar pipeline forward, including the El Fahs 75 MW wind project under Japan’s carbon-credit mechanisms and additional solar projects in Tozeur, Sidi Bouzid and Gabès. Sustainable Tourism Push: A study urges Tunisia to diversify tourism beyond the usual model, projecting up to 2.7 billion dinars by 2030 from underused niches like health, rural stays and luxury rentals. School Year Readiness: The education ministry is preparing the 2026-2027 school year with 23 new institutions, about 300 new learning spaces, and 100,000 new desks. Cybersecurity for Public Services: The prime minister issued a circular requiring stronger protection of public digital systems, including hosting rules, HTTPS, multi-factor authentication, and regular audits.

Press Freedom Under Pressure: A Tunisian judge ordered the detention of investigative journalist Mohamed Yousfi after police stopped him as he arrived for a radio interview, with charges cited as illicit enrichment and money laundering; the National Syndicate of Tunisian Journalists says the move follows a wider campaign of intimidation and warns Tunisia is closing off independent voices. Water & Heat Stress in Prisons: Rights groups report a “wave of deaths” in Tunisian detention linked to extreme heat and poor ventilation, as the country also grapples with power cuts and water shortages that have hit daily life and public services. Energy Transition & Renewables: Tunisia’s El Fahs 75 MW wind project in Zaghouan was selected for Japanese support under the Joint Crediting Mechanism, adding momentum to the renewables push. Sustainable Textiles: Tunisian firm PigmentOco won an Avantex Fashion Pitch award for supercritical CO₂ dyeing, aiming to cut the water and pollution burden of textile production. Cybersecurity Push: The Prime Minister issued a circular requiring stronger protection of public digital systems, including secure hosting rules, HTTPS, multi-factor authentication, and regular audits.

Press Freedom Under Pressure: A Tunisian judge ordered the detention of investigative journalist Mohamed Yousfi after police stopped him at Radio Express FM, with charges cited as illicit enrichment and money laundering—rights groups warn this signals a wider squeeze on independent voices. Cybersecurity Push: The Prime Minister issued a circular making stricter protections mandatory for public institutions’ digital systems, including hosting rules, HTTPS, multi-factor authentication, and annual security audits. Heat and Human Rights: Tunisia’s League for Human Rights says 20 prisoners have died in detention in recent weeks amid extreme heat and poor ventilation, while authorities have not confirmed heat-related deaths. Renewables With Japan Support: The 75 MW El Fahs wind project in Zaghouan was selected for Japanese grant funding under the JCM, adding momentum to Tunisia’s energy transition. Water-Energy Reliability Shock: Reports say summer power cuts have broken business trust in STEG, pushing firms toward self-generation and reshaping how companies plan for outages. Clean Tech for Textiles: Tunisian firm PigmentOco won an Avantex Fashion Pitch award for supercritical CO₂ dyeing, targeting water-heavy pollution in garment production.

Renewables Push: Tunisia’s El Fahs 75 MW onshore wind project in Zaghouan has been selected for Japanese support under the Joint Crediting Mechanism, with Japan’s embassy saying it’s the first wind project approved under the mechanism and part of a wider Japan–Tunisia renewables push. Tourism Diversification: A new IACE study urges Tunisia to speed up diversification of tourism beyond the usual model, projecting five underused niches (senior, health & wellness, guesthouses/rural, luxury, and short-term rentals) could bring nearly 2.7 billion dinars by 2030 and create 21,500+ jobs. Heat & Rights Under Strain: The Tunisian League for Human Rights reports 20 prisoner deaths linked to extreme heat, while Human Rights Watch says authorities are escalating pressure on civil society, prosecuting dozens of NGO-linked people and holding some in preventive detention beyond legal limits. Weather & Safety: Civil Protection warns of heavy rain, flash-flood and runoff risks, urging people to avoid wadis and flooded roads and drivers to stay on safer routes. Nature & Heritage: Tunisia received UNESCO recognition for the Dahar UNESCO Global Geopark, highlighting its geological sites and potential for local environmental tourism.

Heat & Health Crisis: Tunisia’s League for Human Rights says 20 prisoners have died in detention in recent weeks amid extreme heat, citing suffocation, poor ventilation and overcrowding; authorities have not yet confirmed heat-related deaths. Energy Reliability & Water Stress: Rights groups and doctors link the broader crisis to long power outages and water cuts during the heatwave, while STEG power cuts have pushed businesses toward self-generation. Renewables Push: Japan’s Carbon Credit Exchange Mechanism grant backs Tunisia’s 75 MW El Fahs onshore wind project, with earlier MCC support for 50 MW solar plants in Tozeur and Sidi Bouzid. Wildfire Fallout: Civil Protection reports summer wildfires destroyed over 14,000 hectares, with fast-spreading blazes worsened by thunderstorms and strong winds. Flood Risk Alerts: Civil Protection warns of heavy rain, flash-flood and runoff dangers, urging drivers to avoid wadi beds and flooded roads. Governance & Civic Space: Human Rights Watch says Tunisia has intensified pressure on civil society, prosecuting and detaining NGO workers and widening suspensions. Civil Protection & Weather: Meteorology forecasts localized thunderstorms, hail in isolated areas, and gusts that may exceed 70 km/h.

Renewables Boost: Tunisia’s 75 MW El Fahs onshore wind project secured a Japanese government grant under the Paris Article 6 Carbon Credit Exchange Mechanism, with more solar projects also moving forward. Wildfire Pressure: Civil Protection reports Tunisia’s summer wildfires destroyed over 14,000 hectares, with thousands of fires and rekindling linked to storms and strong winds. Heat + Utilities Crisis: Extreme heat is driving rotating power cuts and disrupting water supplies, leaving hospitals and households under heavy strain. Power Cuts Schedule: STEG warned of intermittent outages on Sept. 1 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. across multiple regions, urging businesses to prepare for continuity. Flash-Flood Safety: Civil Protection issued guidance to avoid flood-prone areas, wadis and flooded roads as heavy rain raises flash-flood risks. Civil Society Under Fire: Human Rights Watch says Tunisia has intensified pressure on NGOs, with mass suspensions, long preventive detention, and convictions tied to civil society work. Governance Reform: The Prime Minister outlined six priorities for faster structural reform of public enterprises, including clearer performance targets and stronger oversight. UNESCO Nature Win: Tunisia officially received the original certificate for the Dahar UNESCO Global Geopark, highlighting its geological and environmental tourism value.