Desalination of Water – Algeria Becomes Africa’s No. 1 in the Pursuit of Water Security
BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- In a national press meeting aired on public channels, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune of Algeria addressed the pressing issue of water stress that not only affects his nation but has global implications. Highlighting that Algeria has now transformed into an arid country, the President warned that water scarcity could persist over time, and the future could witness conflicts centered around this precious resource. Drawing attention to the example of nations grappling with tensions over water, he urged for swift action to secure water security.
To combat the escalating water stress, President Tebboune presented a multi-faceted strategy, focusing on seawater desalination for the north and significant water transfers for the south. Notably, he proudly announced that Algeria has attained the remarkable distinction of becoming the foremost country in Africa for seawater desalination, trailing only Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates among Arab countries. With over 1.4 billion m3 of drinkable water already achieved, the President expressed confidence that reaching 2.5-3 billion m3 would effectively resolve the nation’s drinking water supply issue, enabling the preservation of groundwater for crucial agricultural and industrial needs.
President Tebboune underscored his vision for a sustainable future, advocating for the use of treated water in agriculture and industry. Revealing that Algeria presently discharges 1 to 1.2 million m3 of water daily without full exploitation, he emphasized the importance of embracing treated wastewater usage, citing examples from advanced countries already implementing such practices. He stressed the urgency of addressing water waste and inefficiency to tackle the ongoing water crisis effectively.
Water security ranked high among the President’s national priorities, culminating in a series of decisive actions. These measures include the expansion of desalination stations, the construction of new dams, and the implementation of large-scale water transfers. Furthermore, in a recent Council of Ministers meeting, President Tebboune ordered an examination and evaluation of the true volume of daily drinking water consumption to revise production and distribution rates, considering the possibility of current figures being inflated.
Recognizing the imperative to safeguard water resources, President Tebboune emphasized the significance of activating the water police, established by presidential decree in 2005 but yet to be fully operational. The water police will play a pivotal role in curbing illegal drilling, unsustainable agricultural irrigation, excessive groundwater pumping, and other forms of water waste that account for a staggering 30 to 40% of the nation’s water production. These practices must be relentlessly pursued and penalized to ensure a sustainable water future for Algeria.
President Tebboune’s resolute commitment to addressing water stress positions Algeria as a leading force in the continent’s quest for water security. His visionary strategies and firm actions set a precedent for other nations to follow in confronting the water crisis that threatens the well-being of humanity and the environment. As Algeria takes center stage in Africa’s pursuit of water sustainability, the nation stands ready to inspire and collaborate with the international community to ensure a bountiful and resilient future for all.
