Governor of Bizerte Calls for Accelerated Work on the Corniche to Combat Marine Erosion
Bizerte, Tunisia – Governor Salem Ben Yacoub has urged the rapid completion of the valorisation and protection works on Bizerte’s corniche, emphasizing the need for a robust protective wall, upgraded quays, and decorative lighting to boost both the site’s aesthetic appeal and functional performance.
Key Highlights from the Site Visit (Wednesday)
| Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Attendees | Governor Salem Ben Yacoub, Mehdi Belhaj (Director‑General, Agency for Coastal Protection & Development), Secretary‑General of the Governorate Abdelatif Hamid, Deputy of Bizerte Nord Samia Bouallag, Regional Director of the Agency Maher Khacharem, plus representatives of the contracting firms and the project’s control office. |
| Project Scope | • 7 km stretch of coastline • Construction of three rocky headlands • Artificial replenishment of ~1 million m³ of sand sourced from the seabed • Development of a 600‑m public space • Installation of windbreaks and sand‑dune fixation systems • Installation of decorative lighting and protective wall/ quay structures |
| Budget | Total estimated cost: TND 100 million; TND 40 million already allocated to the first phase currently under construction. |
| Timeline | Works began in September 2025 and are progressing under close supervision. |
| Strategic Importance | - National, regional, and local significance – strengthens infrastructure, stimulates economic and tourism activity, and safeguards the marine environment. - First‑of‑its‑kind coastal intervention in Tunisia and the wider region. |
| Governance Recommendation | Governor Ben Yacoub stressed the need to intensify communication with civil‑society actors, viewing them as essential partners for monitoring and supporting state efforts. |
Project Objectives
- Erosion Control: Build a durable protective wall and reinforce dunes to halt marine erosion.
- Environmental Preservation: Re‑sand the shoreline with marine‑sourced sand to restore natural habitats.
- Tourism Boost: Create an attractive, well‑lit promenade that encourages local and international visitors.
- Economic Development: Upgrade coastal infrastructure to support commercial activities and job creation.
Why This Matters
The Bizerte corniche project represents a pioneering coastal management initiative in Tunisia, setting a benchmark for future shoreline protection efforts across North Africa. By combining engineering solutions with aesthetic enhancements, the project aims to balance ecological stewardship with socio‑economic growth.
For further updates on the Bizerte coastal development, stay tuned to our news feed.
