President Tebboune Demonstrates Strong Commitment to Algeria’s Progress on Independence Day: A Look Back at President’s Outings

BY: Hana Saada

ALGIERS- In commemoration of the 61st anniversary of Algeria’s recovery of national sovereignty after 132 years of French colonization, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune engaged in a series of activities on July 5th. The Communication Department of the Presidency of the Republic released a 48-minute video highlighting the President’s engagements throughout the day, showcasing his commitment to the development and progress of the nation.

The day commenced with President Tebboune paying his respects to the chouhada (martyrs) by laying a wreath at the martyr’ sanctuary and reciting the verses of the Fatiha, symbolizing remembrance and honor for those who sacrificed their lives for Algeria’s independence.

One of the significant events of the day took place in the wilaya of Boumerdes, where President Tebboune laid the cornerstone of a seawater desalination plant in Cap-Djinet. In a humble and understated manner, the President highlighted the significance of the project. Toufik Hakkar, the CEO of Sonatrach, Algeria’s national oil group, provided insight into the features of the emergency plan against water stress, including the construction of five desalination stations across the country. These stations, managed entirely by Sonatrach subsidiaries (AEC and GCB), are set to provide 1.5 million m3 of drinking water per day, covering 42% of local drinking water consumption by 2024.

President Tebboune commended the achievements of Sonatrach, acknowledging the importance of Algerian companies managing major infrastructure projects. By keeping the projects in local hands, the country can preserve its financial resources and avoid reliance on turnkey solutions from foreign groups. The President attributed this success to the integrity and expertise of Algerian executives, particularly those at Sonatrach, led by CEO Mr. Toufik Hakkar.

During his visit, President Tebboune also stressed the need for a similar desalination station in the wilaya of Tizi-Ouzou and encouraged the consideration of such projects in other coastal wilayas. Additionally, he recommended investing in wastewater treatment plants for agricultural and industrial use to conserve drinking water resources for households.

Further highlighting his commitment to infrastructure development, President Tebboune inaugurated a seawater desalination station in Fouka, Tipaza, with a capacity of 300,000 m3 per day. He announced that national companies invested in this sector would benefit from an 80% tax exemption under the finance law for 2024.

In line with his commitment to provide advanced healthcare facilities, President Tebboune also attended the inauguration of a modern burns hospital in Zeralda, equipped with 140 beds and state-of-the-art medical equipment. The President’s presence underscored the importance of prioritizing healthcare infrastructure to meet the needs of the population.

Another noteworthy stop was Ouled Fayet, Algiers, where President Tebboune initiated the construction of the media city “Dzair Media City.” This ambitious project aims to establish a comprehensive infrastructure that brings together various media activities, including public television channels, Algerian radio stations, APS (Algerian Press Service), ANEP (National Agency of Publishing and Advertising), and film studios. The President urged an acceleration of the construction timeline, with the city expected to be completed within 27 months.

Continuing his efforts to address housing needs, President Tebboune launched the construction of 14,442 rental-purchase housing units (AADL) in the capital city, with a significant portion allocated to the municipality of Rahmania.

The eventful day concluded with an evening gathering at the national circle of the army of Béni-Messous, dedicated to honoring senior officers of the Algerian People’s National Army (ANP), both active and retired. This gesture served as a testament to the President’s deep respect and appreciation for the ANP’s invaluable contributions to safeguarding Algeria’s independence and security.

President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s diverse and productive outings on Independence Day exemplify his unwavering dedication to the progress and development of Algeria. Through his various initiatives, the President emphasizes the importance of local expertise, sustainable resource management, and the provision of essential services to benefit the Algerian people. As the nation celebrates its hard-fought independence, President Tebboune’s commitment to Algeria’s future shines brightly, offering hope and optimism to all Algerians.