President Tebboune Reaffirms Algeria’s Commitment to Its Social State, Economic Development, and Citizen Welfare

BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria | October 6th, 2024 — In a firm and unequivocal declaration during his latest address to national media, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune reiterated Algeria’s unwavering commitment to its identity as a social state, emphasizing that this core principle will endure. “Algeria is a social state and will remain so,” the President affirmed, underscoring the government’s determination to ensure the welfare and comfort of its citizens amidst global economic pressures and rising costs.

Speaking with palpable conviction, Tebboune emphasized that the government’s primary objective is not to enrich every citizen, but rather to guarantee that the basic needs of all are met. “We will never leave ordinary citizens to fend for themselves,” he said, highlighting the state’s responsibility to shield the most vulnerable from the harsh effects of global price increases. The President mentioned that he personally monitors the prices of essential commodities to ensure citizens have access to affordable food. In this regard, he pointed to items such as coffee, which has seen a 60% drop in global production, resulting in significant price hikes. Yet, he assured, the Algerian state absorbs the difference in cost, preventing consumers from being burdened.

Combating Inflation and Speculation to Preserve Purchasing Power

The President’s commitment to protecting the purchasing power of Algerians was reinforced through his discussion of inflation, which he acknowledged remains a challenge. “Inflation rates of 7 to 7.5% have become almost commonplace,” Tebboune admitted, but he contrasted this with the much higher rates seen in European countries, where inflation has reached between 12 and 13%, and in some cases even 90%. Tebboune remains confident that his administration can reduce inflation to below 5%, a target he linked to strengthening the national currency, the dinar, and by extension, the purchasing power of Algerians.

To further protect the economy and citizens from speculative practices, Tebboune outlined his government’s proactive measures to import goods whenever a shortage is detected, aiming to curb any artificial inflation of prices. This preemptive approach, he explained, is vital in ensuring that Algerians continue to have access to basic products at fair prices, regardless of fluctuations in global supply chains.

Revaluation of Salaries and Expansion of Social Support

Looking toward the future, President Tebboune revealed a series of ambitious plans designed to improve living standards across the country. Beginning at the end of 2025 or early 2026, the government will increase wages, pensions, student scholarships, and social assistance programs, including unemployment benefits. These increases, Tebboune explained, will eventually reach 100% by 2027, providing a comprehensive uplift to the financial well-being of the population.

A key aspect of this reform is the government’s commitment to digitization, which Tebboune hailed as an essential tool for preventing the misuse and embezzlement of public funds. By digitizing social aid systems, the government will be able to monitor and verify the eligibility of beneficiaries with precision. “Through digitization, we will have an accurate list of those who qualify for assistance, and no one will be able to take advantage of public funds unlawfully,” Tebboune asserted, positioning the reform as a safeguard against corruption and a means to ensure that aid reaches those who need it most.

Boosting National Production and Economic Growth

In parallel with social policies, President Tebboune underscored the importance of boosting national production, particularly in the agriculture and food sectors, to achieve greater self-sufficiency and stabilize domestic markets. He pointed out that the production of essential goods such as semolina and flour now exceeds 150% of the country’s needs, while the production of cooking oil is twice as high as domestic demand. Furthermore, Tebboune announced that Algeria will begin producing sugar locally, which is expected to contribute to better control of market prices and reduce dependence on imports.

The President also highlighted the need to ramp up production of wheat and pulses, both critical staples in the Algerian diet, and mentioned that despite ongoing efforts, the price of meat continues to pose challenges. He called for a new policy to ensure that meat prices are kept affordable for all citizens. Until such a policy is fully implemented, he reassured that meat imports will continue, ensuring that supply meets demand.

A Comprehensive Housing Program for Social and Economic Development

Among the President’s most impactful announcements was the ongoing commitment to providing housing for Algerians. Tebboune detailed an ambitious program aimed at delivering 2 million new homes, a project he described as not only a social obligation but also a driver of economic development. “When the construction sector thrives, the entire economy thrives,” Tebboune proclaimed, referring to the program as a “social, political, and economic initiative” that is integral to the nation’s overall development strategy.

He stressed that this housing initiative serves as a catalyst for job creation and wealth generation, laying the foundation for broader economic growth. By aligning the housing program with other development projects, Tebboune’s administration seeks to ensure that Algeria’s economic progress is sustainable and inclusive, benefiting all sectors of society.

Conclusion: A Call for Collective Effort in Safeguarding Algeria’s Future

In closing, President Tebboune reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that Algerians do not face the same hardships as citizens in wealthier nations, where the rising cost of living has forced many to forego basic goods. He called on the population to unite in the fight against smuggling and speculation, emphasizing the need for collective responsibility to safeguard Algeria’s future.

“We will do everything in our power to ensure that our citizens do not experience the decline in purchasing power that is plaguing other, wealthier nations,” Tebboune declared, pledging that his government will continue to pursue policies that prioritize the welfare of the people, protect the economy, and uphold the country’s identity as a social state.

Through these far-reaching social, economic, and digitization initiatives, Tebboune’s administration seeks to preserve the dignity and well-being of Algerian citizens while positioning the country for long-term prosperity.

 

 

 

 

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