Tunisia Faces Ongoing Water Crisis Despite Winter Rainfall, Expert Warns

Tunisia is in a 'critical' water situation, with total water resources at 5.1 billion m³ and annual consumption nearing 3 billion m³. Despite winter rains, the country exploits around 133% of its water resources. Reservoirs are 54% full but insufficient for needs. Measures proposed include increased use of treated wastewater, desalination, and better rainwater collection. A project for underground reservoirs is underway in Saouaf, alongside calls for legal reforms to address over-exploitation.

Published Mar 22, 2026

Tunisia's water crisis persists, with total water resources at 5.1 billion m³ and annual consumption close to 3 billion m³, according to Mohamed Lotfi Nacef, president of the Association Eau et Développement. The country is exploiting approximately 133% of its water resources, leading to significant pressure on reserves.

AI-curated by Theia

Reservoirs are 54% full, but this is insufficient to meet needs. Proposed solutions include increasing the use of treated wastewater, implementing desalination, and enhancing rainwater collection systems. A project for underground reservoirs is underway in Saouaf, and there are calls for urgent legal reforms to combat over-exploitation.