AGP Executive Report

Wildfire Crisis: Tunisia’s summer wildfires have destroyed over 14,000 hectares of forest, with Civil Protection reporting 13,463 fires extinguished between June 1 and Aug. 30, and major blazes rekindled by thunderstorms and strong winds. Evacuations in Kairouan & Siliana: Authorities evacuated more than 100 families as flames spread toward homes; residents were moved to schools and a youth camp, while two military aircraft and reinforcements supported firefighting. Heat, Power, Water: Extreme heat near 50°C is driving rotating STEG power cuts that disrupt water supplies and strain hospitals, leaving many Tunisians without reliable electricity or water. STEG Outage Plan: STEG also announced intermittent power cuts from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. in multiple regions on Sept. 1, depending on grid conditions. Civic Space Under Pressure: Human Rights Watch says Tunisia has intensified pressure on civil society, prosecuting activists and suspending dozens of associations, narrowing post-2011 civic space. Tourism & Investment: Tunisia says visitor numbers have topped 6 million by early August, with Spanish hotel chains moving from intentions to project implementation.

Heatwave & Utilities Crisis: Tunisia is sweltering near 50°C, with rotating power cuts and water disruptions hitting hospitals and households hard, as demand spikes and grid fragility shows. Planned Outages: STEG warns of intermittent power cuts on Sept. 1 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. across Greater Tunis, North, Northwest, Central Tunisia, Sfax and the South/Southwest, depending on grid conditions. Wildfires & Evacuations: More than 100 families were evacuated in Kairouan and Siliana as wildfires spread fast in strong winds; military aircraft and civil defense teams were deployed, with no casualties reported. Fire Risk & Policy: Algeria moves to reinstate the death penalty for arsonists after deadly forest fires, underscoring how extreme heat is driving disaster response across the region. Tunisia-Germany Cooperation: President Saied met Germany’s foreign minister and discussed stronger ties in energy, environment, education, research and digital transitions, alongside reviewing EU partnership terms. Regional Climate Activism: North Africa’s social movements are shifting toward practical demands, with environmental and climate concerns increasingly shaping protests and pressure on energy transitions. Wildfire Response Capacity: A shortage of Canadair water bombers is leaving Europe struggling to keep up with fires, even as aircraft have been used to help Tunisia.

Heatwave & public health: Tunisia’s doctors group says emergency departments are under “unprecedented” pressure, with deaths linked to soaring temperatures and heatstroke, urging a health emergency as Kairouan hit near-record highs. Water & power crisis: Protests are spreading over water cuts, electricity outages and rising living costs, while rotating power cuts are also tied to water disruptions. Thirst bottleneck: Reports describe “Wild West” scenes of queues and truck-chasing for bottled water, reflecting a deeper breakdown in trust and tap-water reliability. Wildfire risk: Siliana’s Mount Boulmane wildfire flared again as winds topped 100 km/h, forcing reinforcements and renewed firefighting. Waste-to-energy progress: An integrated gas extraction and recovery unit at the Errahma controlled landfill is about 90% complete, aiming to cut methane emissions and later produce green electricity. Green finance: The EBRD expands its risk-sharing with Attijari Bank Tunisia to €70m and adds an ESG investment facility to back energy, waste and other sustainability upgrades. Diplomacy & environment-linked cooperation: President Kais Saied met Germany’s foreign minister, discussing cooperation in energy, tech innovation and reviewing EU partnership terms. Weather watch: Forecasts point to thunderstorms with possible hail and gusty winds in parts of the north and center, with rougher seas in the north.

Heatwave & water crisis: Tunisia is seeing “unprecedented” thirst scenes as people queue for bottled water while power cuts disrupt water supplies, exposing a deeper breakdown in trust and tap-water reliability. Extreme heat impacts health: Doctors’ group reports “unprecedented” pressure on emergency departments, with deaths linked to the severe heatwave and Kairouan hitting 49.8°C. Wildfire flare-up (Siliana): At Mount Boulmane, winds over 100 km/h reignited a wildfire; ash reportedly drifted toward Kairouan, and reinforcements were requested as teams cooled hotspots to prevent re-ignition. Storm outlook: Monday weather warns of thunderstorms in western and central-north regions, with possible hail and gusts above 70 km/h. Waste & climate mitigation (Nabeul): Errahma landfill gas recovery unit is ~90% complete, aiming to cut methane and later convert it into green electricity. Phosphate mining debate: Namibia’s Sandpiper project faces opposition citing Tunisia’s Gafsa mining legacy and calls for independent oversight. Finance for greener business (EBRD): EBRD expands Attijari Bank Tunisia risk-sharing to €70m and adds an ESG facility to back energy efficiency, renewables and waste-reduction investments.

Heatwave Crisis in Tunisia: Tunisia’s extreme heat is back at full force, with Kairouan hitting 49.8°C on Aug. 27 as rotating power cuts disrupt water supplies and doctors warn emergency departments are under strain. Health System Under Pressure: An independent doctors’ group says hospitals are seeing an “unprecedented” surge in heatstroke cases and deaths, urging a formal “health emergency” as official figures lag. Weather Watch: Meteorology forecasts localized thunderstorms with heavy rain and possible hail in parts of the north and center, with gusty winds during storms, while temperatures ease slightly in some areas. Waste-to-Energy Progress (Nabeul): Tunisia’s Errahma controlled landfill gas recovery unit is about 90% complete, aiming to cut greenhouse gases by converting methane and later producing green electricity. AI Governance Update: Tunisia ranks 10th in Africa in the 2026 African AI Governance Index, scoring 2.12/4, with strengths in policy frameworks but concerns over talent retention. Green Finance Boost: The EBRD expanded its risk-sharing with Attijari Bank Tunisia to €70m and added an ESG investment facility to support cleaner, more sustainable business projects. Regional Fire Risk: Algeria’s deadly wildfires—driven by the same North Africa heatwave—left at least 12 dead and 54 injured, underscoring the wider climate threat.

Heatwave Health Crisis: Tunisia’s independent young doctors group reports an “unprecedented” surge in heatstroke cases and deaths in emergency departments, urging a formal “health emergency” as officials have not yet published official figures. Meteorology & Risk Alerts: The National Institute of Meteorology warns of continued extreme heat with sirocco effects, plus localized thunderstorms and gusty storms; vulnerable groups are told to limit outdoor exposure and hydrate. Wildfire Spillover Region: Algeria’s deadly northern wildfires—linked to the same heatwave—have killed at least 12 and injured 54, with evacuations underway, underscoring the rising fire threat across the Maghreb. Waste & Climate Action: Tunisia’s Errahma controlled landfill near Nabeul is nearing 90% completion on a gas extraction and treatment unit, aiming to cut greenhouse gases by converting methane and later producing green electricity. Green Finance for Industry: The EBRD expands its risk-sharing with Attijari Bank Tunisia to €70m and adds an ESG investment facility to back energy efficiency, renewables, waste reduction and other sustainability upgrades. Biodiversity Protection: Sierra Leone’s NPAA steps up protection of Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary, targeting illegal hunting, forest degradation and encroachment—an environmental governance reminder for the region.

Heatwave Health Crisis: Tunisia’s independent young doctors group says hospitals are seeing an “unprecedented” surge in heatstroke cases and deaths, urging a formal health emergency as temperatures hit extreme levels including 49.8°C in Kairouan. Climate & Disaster Risk: Tunisia’s meteorology institute warns of continued above-season heat with sirocco making it feel hotter, while Algeria’s wildfires—fuelled by the same heatwave—have killed at least 12 and injured 54, underscoring the region-wide fire danger. Waste-to-Climate Project: In Nabeul, the Errahma controlled landfill gas extraction and treatment unit is about 90% complete, aiming to cut greenhouse gases by converting methane and later producing green electricity. Green Finance Push: The EBRD expands its risk-sharing with Attijari Bank Tunisia to €70m and adds a new ESG investment facility to back energy efficiency, renewables, waste reduction and other sustainability upgrades. AI Governance: Tunisia ranks 10th in Africa in the 2026 African AI Governance Index, scoring 2.12/4—showing progress but also highlighting talent and execution gaps.

Heatwave Health Crisis: Tunisia’s independent young doctors group reports deaths in hospital emergency departments amid the ongoing severe heatwave, urging an immediate “health emergency” declaration as it cites an “unprecedented increase” in heatstroke cases and admissions, with authorities yet to publish official figures. Weather Watch: The National Institute of Meteorology says temperatures will stay above seasonal norms, with sirocco winds boosting the heat; a gradual cooling is expected from mid-next week. Wildfire Risk: Tunisia places most regions on high alert as extreme heat raises wildfire dangers. Waste-to-Energy Push: ANGed and UN-Habitat move to strengthen waste-to-energy projects, including training and regional knowledge exchange to support circular-economy waste recovery. Phosphate Mining Opposition: IPC says it opposes the Sandpiper Marine Phosphate project, citing environmental, social and public health concerns. Finance for ESG: The EBRD expands its risk-sharing facility with Attijari Bank Tunisia to €70m and adds an ESG investment line to back energy efficiency, renewables and waste-reduction projects. AI Governance Spotlight: Tunisia ranks 10th in Africa in the inaugural African AI Governance Index, scoring 2.12/4 while noting gaps like talent retention.

Heatwave Watch in Tunisia: Tunisia’s National Institute of Meteorology says temperatures are staying well above seasonal norms, with sirocco winds pushing inland and southern areas higher; a gradual cooling is expected from mid-next week, but for now residents are urged to limit outdoor activity and protect vulnerable groups. Wildfire Risk & Civil Protection Alerts: Tunisia’s Civil Protection has issued warnings that extreme heat could sharply raise wildfire risk, urging people not to light fires near forests or farmland, not to burn waste or crop residues, and to report any smoke immediately. Regional Fire Crisis (Algeria): Northern Algeria is battling deadly wildfires, with at least 12 reported dead and 54 injured as civil protection teams respond across multiple provinces, while the same heatwave grips Tunisia and the wider Maghreb. Waste-to-Energy Push: ANGed and UN-Habitat are strengthening cooperation to develop waste-to-energy projects, including training and knowledge-sharing to boost local capacity and support a circular economy. Land COP Drought Deal Delayed: UN land restoration talks ended without a drought protocol, pushing the issue to later negotiations, despite calls from African negotiators for a legally binding, regional approach to drought and migration.

Heatwave Watch (Tunisia): Tunisia’s National Institute of Meteorology says most regions are on high alert as temperatures stay 4–8°C above normal, with sirocco winds boosting the heat. A slight cooling is expected on parts of the north and eastern coast, but Saturday could still hit 37–42°C nationwide and up to 45°C in the southwest. Wildfire Risk: Tunisia’s Civil Protection warns the extreme heat could sharply raise wildfire danger, urging people to avoid lighting fires near forests and farmland, stop burning waste or crop residues, and report any smoke immediately to 198. Kairouan Heat Record: Kairouan reached 49.8°C, ranking among the world’s hottest cities, with temporary power cuts reported as STEG protects grid stability. Regional Fire Tragedy (Algeria): In neighbouring Algeria, wildfires killed at least 12 and injured 54, with evacuations reported as civil protection recorded 154 outbreaks in a day. Agriculture Under Pressure: Tunisia’s Agriculture ministry urges farmers, breeders and fishermen to protect livestock from heat stress and adjust irrigation to cooler hours.

Heatwave Watch: Tunisia’s Kairouan hit 49.8°C, among the world’s hottest spots, as the INM and Civil Protection issued alerts and warned of wildfire risk and health impacts; STEG also carried out temporary power cuts to protect the grid. Wildfire Crisis (Algeria): Severe heat fueled 154 vegetation fires across Algeria, killing at least 12 and injuring 54, with evacuations in hardest-hit areas like Jijel and Bejaia. Agriculture Under Pressure: Tunisia’s Agriculture Ministry urged farmers, breeders and fishermen to use shade, water and cooler-hour schedules, and to manage irrigation carefully as temperatures stay far above seasonal norms. Regional Weather Risks: Arab Weather flagged thunderstorms, heavy rain and flash-flood potential across parts of North and East Africa, adding to the week’s extreme conditions. Biodiversity & Water Angle: Tunisia’s date sector in Tataouine is moving forward with an irrigated agricultural hub aimed at boosting production while supporting desert biodiversity. Health & Talent: Tunisian dermatologist Asmahan Souissi received an international award, highlighting growing recognition for Tunisia’s medical expertise.

Heatwave & Wildfire Risk: Tunisia’s National Institute of Meteorology and Civil Protection issued high-alert warnings as temperatures surged, with Kairouan hitting 49.8°C and several cities among the world’s hottest; STEG reported temporary power cuts to protect the grid, while the Agriculture Ministry urged farmers and breeders to shield livestock, manage irrigation, and avoid peak-hour fieldwork. Regional Fire Tragedy: Across the border, Algeria reported at least 12 deaths and 54 injuries as a severe heatwave fed 154 wildfires in one day, prompting evacuations in Jijel, Béjaïa and Tizi Ouzou. Weather Watch: Tunisia also faced heatwave conditions with sirocco winds and localized storm chances, and authorities urged residents—especially children, the elderly and people with chronic illnesses—to drink regularly, limit outdoor activity, and report any smoke immediately.

Extreme Heat & Power Strain: Tunisia’s Kairouan hit 49.8°C, the world’s second-highest reading, as a heatwave swept the country and triggered temporary power cuts to protect the grid. Heatwave Alerts: Tunisia’s meteorology institute placed most regions on high alert, warning of sirocco-linked heat and advising residents to limit outdoor activity, hydrate, and protect vulnerable groups. Wildfire Risk: Civil Protection urged strict fire prevention as temperatures climb toward 48°C, warning against lighting fires near forests and farmland and calling citizens to report smoke immediately. Agriculture Under Pressure: The Agriculture Ministry told farmers, breeders, and fishermen to take preventive steps for livestock heat stress and to adjust irrigation schedules to cooler hours. Regional Fire Disaster: Across the border, Algeria reported at least 12 deaths and 54 injuries as wildfires spread through provinces including Jijel, Bejaia, and Tizi Ouzou, with evacuations underway. Weather Beyond Tunisia: Arab Weather flagged thunderstorms and flash-flood risks in parts of North and East Africa over coming days.

Heat & Wildfire Alerts: Tunisia’s Civil Protection and Meteorology issued orange warnings as temperatures climb toward 48°C, with sirocco winds and a higher wildfire risk—residents are urged to avoid any open flames, burning waste, and careless smoking, and to report smoke immediately. Agriculture Under Pressure: The Agriculture Ministry also warned farmers, breeders and fishermen to protect livestock from heat stress, limit outdoor work during peak hours, and adjust irrigation schedules to cooler periods. Extreme Weather Watch: An updated vigilance map put 11 governorates on orange alert for hot conditions plus sirocco and possible afternoon thunderstorms, with hail and damaging gusts. Migration Tragedy: Tunisia’s national guard reported a migrant boat capsizing off the south-east coast: at least two dead and 12 missing, with one survivor rescued and search efforts continuing. Local Recognition: Tunisian dermatologist Asmahan Souissi won an international award for Africa, with the Health Ministry highlighting support for young medical talent and research. Regional Food Security: Egypt’s wheat output is projected to stay highest in the Arab world in 2026, with Tunisia listed among producers—an indirect reminder of how climate and supply shocks ripple across the region.

Heatwave & wildfire risk: Tunisia’s Civil Protection and Meteorology issued warnings as temperatures climb toward 48°C, with sirocco and dry conditions raising the chance of wildfires; residents are urged to avoid lighting fires, burning waste, or discarding cigarettes in natural areas and to report any smoke immediately. Agriculture under extreme heat: The Agriculture Ministry told farmers, livestock breeders and fishermen to take preventive steps against heat stress, including shade and water for animals and irrigation during cooler hours to limit damage to crops. Severe weather alert: An orange vigilance map put 11 governorates on high danger for hot weather plus sirocco and afternoon thunderstorms, with hail and strong winds possible. Migration tragedy at sea: Search teams recovered eight bodies after a migrant boat capsized off southern Tunisia near Zarzis, with six still missing and one survivor found; the central Mediterranean route remains among the deadliest. Land administration update: Mandatory cadastral surveys are set to begin Nov. 1 in Kasserine, Mahdia, Jendouba, Médenine, Sfax and Gabès to identify unregistered, undeveloped properties—without automatic land titles or expropriation. Water stress response: Sousse is turning to seawater desalination to tackle water shortages.

Heatwave & wildfire risk: Tunisia’s National Civil Protection warns temperatures will surge from Aug 25, with wildfire danger rising sharply—especially in forested and agricultural areas—urging people to avoid lighting fires, burning waste or crop residues, and to report smoke immediately via 198. Agriculture under pressure: The Agriculture Ministry also issued preventive guidance for farmers, livestock breeders and fishermen as forecasts point to extreme heat (42–48°C) and sirocco winds, including shade and water for animals and irrigation scheduling in cooler hours. Weather alerts: Meteorology’s orange vigilance map puts 11 governorates on high alert for hot weather plus sirocco and afternoon thunderstorms, with strong gusts possible and extra care urged for children, elderly people and those with chronic conditions. Migration tragedy: Search teams recovered eight bodies after a migrant boat capsized off southeastern Tunisia near Zarzis, with six still missing and one survivor found alive—another grim reminder of the deadly central Mediterranean route. Land administration: New decrees set mandatory cadastral surveys starting Nov 1 in Kasserine, Mahdia, Jendouba, Médenine, Sfax and Gabès to identify unregistered, undeveloped properties, without automatic land titles or expropriation. Health spotlight: Tunisian dermatologist Asmahan Souissi won an international award for Africa, with the Health Ministry highlighting Tunisia’s young medical talent.