The African Development Bank supports a strategic project aimed at strengthening road infrastructure in Tunisia, with a major economic and social impact.
The African Development Bank (AfDB) has announced a loan of €80.16 million to Tunisia to finance the third phase of the Road Infrastructure Modernization Program. This project, with a total cost of €86.21 million, will span the period from 2025 to 2030 and aims to improve the quality of the road network in seven strategic governorates: Kef, Kasserine, Sousse, Sfax, Kairouan, Siliana, and Gafsa.
Modernized Roads for a Connected Tunisia
The primary objective of this project is to rehabilitate and upgrade 188.9 kilometers of classified roads, addressing challenges posed by the current degradation of infrastructure in the targeted regions.
“This initiative will improve access to high-value agricultural areas, thus contributing to Tunisia’s food security,” said Solomon Quaynor, Vice President of the African Development Bank Group responsible for Private Sector, Infrastructure, and Industrialization.
This project continues the work of the two previous phases and marks a critical step in modernizing road infrastructure in Tunisia, which is essential for the country’s economic and social development.
Significant Economic and Social Impact
The transport sector, which represents approximately 5% of Tunisia’s GDP and generates nearly 160,000 jobs, is a key driver of the national economy. With this project, Tunisia will benefit from:
- A more efficient and sustainable transport system, facilitating the smoother movement of goods and people.
- Reduced youth unemployment, particularly through job creation for road maintenance.
- The development of vulnerable regions, improving access to socio-economic centers and promoting regional equity.
Additionally, the project will support local road maintenance micro-enterprises, ensuring the sustainability of infrastructure while providing economic opportunities for entrepreneurs.
Supporting the Supply Chain and Regional Integration
Upgrading road infrastructure is strategically important for the supply chain in Tunisia. By effectively linking agricultural and industrial regions, this project will help develop local value chains driven by the private sector.
Furthermore, by improving connections between Tunisia and Algeria, particularly in border regions, this project aligns with the AfDB’s goal of integrating Africa.
“These interventions will facilitate cross-border trade and stimulate economic exchanges between the two countries,” Solomon Quaynor added.
AfDB: A Key Partner for Infrastructure in Tunisia
Over the past ten years, the African Development Bank has supported several large-scale projects in Tunisia, renovating around 4,000 kilometers of roads, 104 kilometers of highways, and constructing key infrastructure. This new project continues this momentum, contributing to the vision of a prosperous, inclusive, and integrated Africa.
A Vision for the Future
By investing in road infrastructure in Tunisia, this project addresses the AfDB’s strategic priorities, including “improving the quality of life for people in Africa” and “integrating Africa.” This is not just about building roads but transforming regions and energizing the local economy.
With this program, Tunisia takes another step toward a modern, inclusive transport system that serves its population and drives economic development.
