Algeria’s Resilient Renaissance: Belkacem Djir Chronicles the Nation’s Journey from 2019 Challenges to 2023 Triumphs under President Tebboune

BY: Dr. Hana Saada

ALGIERS- In a reflective analysis on the talk show “Question Mark” on Dzair Tube, journalist Belkacem Djir posed a series of questions, comparing the state of Algeria in 2019 to its current status in 2023. His questions highlighted the significant transformations the country has undergone in the past four years, particularly under the leadership of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune.

Djir vividly recalled the precarious situation Algeria faced in 2019, describing it as being on the brink of collapse and susceptible to scenarios of chaos and destruction. He reminded viewers of the political and economic turmoil, with state institutions in disarray, except for the robust security and military establishments. Djir pointed out that during this period, political and financial elites were accused of pillaging the nation, depleting its resources, and pushing it towards bankruptcy.

He drew attention to the dire warnings from the then-Prime Minister Ahmed Ouyahia, who declared the government’s incapacity to pay pensions for retirees, reflecting the severity of the economic crisis.

Fast forward to 2023, Djir presented a contrasting picture under President Tebboune’s leadership:

1. Global Challenges: Despite the world grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic, President Tebboune navigated the country through the crisis, focusing on safeguarding the health and well-being of Algerians.

2. Leadership in Crisis: President Tebboune’s proactive approach and commitment to his promises became evident in late 2021 when he initiated a series of multidimensional workshops, addressing political, economic, social, and diplomatic challenges.

3. Constitutional Reform: The president played a pivotal role in drafting a new constitution, reconstructing Algerian state institutions that were on the verge of collapse.

4. Comprehensive Legal Reforms: President Tebboune embarked on deep-seated legal reforms, undertaking significant changes to various laws to modernize and align them with the country’s evolving needs.

5. Economic Resilience: Algeria’s foreign exchange reserves, which were around $40 billion in 2019, have now exceeded $70 billion, a testament to the country’s economic recovery and resilience under Tebboune’s leadership.

6. Social Welfare Advancements: President Tebboune implemented substantial wage increases for over three million employees, raised pensions for retirees, and elevated allowances for the disabled, amounting to nearly 50% in the past three years.

7. International Trade Success: Thanks to President Tebboune’s efforts, Algeria now exports up to $13 billion worth of non-hydrocarbon goods, diversifying its economy and reducing dependence on fossil fuel revenues.

Djir’s analysis, echoed by other participants on the show, painted a positive trajectory for Algeria under President Tebboune’s administration. The reforms and resilience showcased during these challenging years position Algeria on a path of stability, development, and prosperity, countering the dire predictions of just four years ago.

Dzair Tube Media Group 

Dzair Tube has firmly established itself as a prominent player among Algerian digital news sites, offering a diverse and enriching content experience. The platform, available in Arabic, French, and English editions, captures the attention of a wide-ranging audience, amassing over half a million daily clicks.

A testament to its commitment to excellence, Dzair Tube received the prestigious President of the Republic’s Award for Professional Journalist in the Electronic Press category on October 22, 2022. This recognition underscores the platform’s unwavering dedication to upholding the highest standards of journalism.

With a significant online presence, Dzair Tube boasts 350,000 subscribers on YouTube, over five million followers on various Facebook pages, and 450,000 subscribers on Instagram. Its digital channel has become a hub for diverse programming, covering news, sports, entertainment, culture, and religion, catering to a broad spectrum of audience preferences.

Equipped with state-of-the-art studios and advanced technology, Dzair Tube’s digital channel has garnered substantial viewership for its varied programs. Hosting interactive discussions with influential figures across different domains, the platform actively fosters public discourse and engagement. Beyond news coverage, Dzair Tube extends its commitment to the production of marketing documentaries, short TV commercials, and high-viewership programs.

The success of the print edition of Dzair Tube’s sports newspaper, “Dzair Sport,” further highlights the platform’s impact, with over 50,000 daily downloads from the official Dzair Tube website.

Recently honored with the Media Leadership Award from the Minister of Communication, Mohamed Laâgab, Dzair Tube continues to shape the landscape of Algerian digital news, maintaining a position of influence and impact in the media industry.