The African Development Bank (AfDB) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Tunisia in reviving the light rail project in Sfax, the country's second-largest city. This strategic pledge, aimed at strengthening the urban transport sector, was reiterated at a recent meeting in Tunis.
The meeting brought together the Minister of Transport, Rached Amari, an AfDB delegation, senior officials from the Ministry of Transport, and a representative from the Ministry of Economy and Planning. Discussions focused on how to effectively relaunch the project, which has been delayed due to funding shortages and unclear decision-making.
Technical Support in the Initial Phase
Initially, the AfDB has committed to providing technical support for updating the light rail project's studies. This step is crucial for redefining the project's scope, updating technical data, and incorporating the Tunisian government's new priorities for sustainable and inclusive transport.
Once this phase is complete, the AfDB may consider partial or full funding for the project, subject to agreed-upon terms, within its infrastructure support portfolio in North Africa.
A Strategic Partnership
Minister Rached Amari praised the strong cooperation between Tunisia and the AfDB, calling the pan-African institution a "trusted partner" for the country's development. He emphasized the importance of the light rail project for relieving traffic congestion in Sfax, improving urban mobility, and supporting the transition to less polluting modes of transport.
- Project aims to reduce congestion in Sfax
- Improve urban mobility
- Support sustainable transport options
The discussions also covered other significant projects awaiting implementation in the transport sector, with the goal of improving coordination and accelerating progress.