The Tunisian government, under the presidency of Kamel Madouri, held a crucial meeting on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at the Government Palace in La Kasbah.
This cabinet meeting was marked by the approval of strategic projects aimed at strengthening the foundations of digital health and improving living conditions in working-class neighborhoods.
A 2025 Budget Focused on Social Justice
The Prime Minister praised the spirit of cooperation between the executive and legislative branches, which facilitated the adoption of the 2025 Finance Law. This law emphasizes innovative measures to bolster the welfare state, including:
- Improving purchasing power for workers, retirees, and low-income families.
- Establishing social funds, including one for the protection of female agricultural workers and another for unemployment insurance.
- Providing fiscal and customs incentives for economic enterprises.
These initiatives aim to lay the groundwork for economic recovery, in line with President Kaïs Saïed’s directives.
Funding for Working-Class Neighborhoods: 261,000 Residents Affected
Among the flagship projects approved, the National Program for Sanitizing Working-Class Neighborhoods stands out. Funded by a loan from the French Development Agency (AFD), this program plans to:
- Intervene in 139 working-class neighborhoods housing 261,000 residents.
- Connect 40 schools (20,000 students), 18 health centers, and one center for the disabled to public sanitation networks.
- Implement internal wastewater drainage systems.
Support for Businesses and Energy Transition
The council also approved other financing projects:
- Credit line for SMEs: An initiative to support small and medium-sized enterprises as part of the economic recovery.
- Renewable Electricity Production: The agreement for the Sakhoud photovoltaic station marks an advancement in the country’s energy transition.
Digital Revolution in Healthcare
A decree project aimed at regulating the compensation for telemedicine consultations was adopted. This decree, focusing on radiology telemedicine, will:
- Address the shortage of specialist doctors in inland regions.
- Enhance citizens’ access to medical services through digital technologies.
The government also emphasized the importance of digital transformation in healthcare to meet citizens’ needs and reduce regional disparities.
A Drive for Reform and Efficiency
The Prime Minister called on ministries to expedite the implementation of reforms and effectively meet citizens’ expectations. Special attention will be given to:
- Completing pending projects.
- Promoting regional development.
- Improving public services in essential areas.
With these ambitious reforms, Tunisia continues its quest for modernization and social justice while seeking to overcome economic and social challenges.
