UK Ambassador to Tunisia Announces Upcoming Strategic Projects in the South
The UK Ambassador to Tunisia, Roderick Drummond, has announced the imminent advancement of several strategic projects in the south of the country, including the launch of the Sol Crypt solar project in Tozeur. In an interview with Diwan FM, he specified that this project, presented as one of the most important combining modern technologies and clean energy, will soon enter the operational phase, with a planned launch in 2027. Its future extension could be multiplied by ten thanks to expected investments in renewable energy. Drummond highlighted that Sol Crypt will generate new job opportunities in the fields of data and digital solutions, affirming that this type of initiative is an essential lever for revitalizing the interior regions. He emphasized the UK's willingness to support projects that can create a real impact on regional development. During a recent visit to Tataouine, the ambassador also met with young entrepreneurs active in the technology sector. He declared himself "very encouraged" by their initiatives, highlighting their ability to create jobs despite limited resources, thanks to innovation and mastery of digital tools. He recalled that support for entrepreneurship and projects led by young people is a major axis of Tunisian-British cooperation. Furthermore, Drummond praised the cultural richness and social vitality of southern Tunisia, after visiting Douz and Chenini. He particularly highlighted the determining role of women in Chenini in preserving traditional knowledge and local identity, estimating that the strength of these communities lies in their women and their deeply rooted knowledge. The ambassador reaffirmed that support for initiatives involving women and young people, whether cultural, digital, or energy-related, is part of the continuity of the solid partnership between Tunisia and the UK and constitutes a key step in strengthening sustainable development in the country. As a reminder, Roderick Drummond has held the position of UK Ambassador to Tunisia since September 2024. An experienced diplomat, he joined the British Foreign Service in 1985 and has served in several countries in the Middle East and North Africa, including Bahrain, Syria, and Oman.
