Tunisia to Mark the 10th Anniversary of the Ben Guerdane Epic
Date: March 7, 2026 (commemoration)
Location: Ben Guerdane, Governorate of Médenine, Tunisia
Background
On March 7, 2016, Tunisian security forces and the national army, backed by local residents, repelled a terrorist group that attempted to seize Ben Guerdane and establish an “emirate” linked to the Islamic State (IS). The successful defense became a defining moment in Tunisia’s fight against terrorism and is now celebrated as the “Ben Guerdane Epic.”
Celebration Schedule (March 2 – 7, 2026)
The ten‑year commemoration will be tailored to the holy month of Ramadan and will run from Monday, March 2 to Sunday, March 7. According to a statement given to Radio Nationale, regional delegate Sami Khalifa emphasized that all activities have been designed with Ramadan’s religious and social sensitivities in mind.
| Date | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Mar 2 (Mon) | Opening ceremony | Flag‑raising at the delegation headquarters, attended by security forces. |
| Mar 2 | Reception for families | Honouring the families of martyrs and the wounded; a collective recitation of Al‑Fatiha for the battle’s victims. |
| Mar 3‑6 | Cultural & social programs | • Artisan fair • Quran memorisation competition • Health caravans and medical tents • Horse races • Various cultural and sporting activities |
| Mar 7 (Sun) | Closing ceremony | Summary of the week’s events and final tributes. |
Key Highlights
- Security Presence: High‑ranking officials from the police, gendarmerie, and army will be on site throughout the week.
- Community Involvement: Local NGOs, religious leaders, and artisans are invited to participate, reinforcing the spirit of solidarity that helped defend the city in 2016.
- Ramadan Adaptation: All events will respect fasting hours; evening programs will begin after Iftar to ensure maximum attendance.
Why This Matters
- Historical significance: The 2016 defense prevented the establishment of an IS‑controlled enclave in southern Tunisia, safeguarding national security.
- National unity: The anniversary serves as a reminder of the collective effort between citizens and security forces.
- Tourism boost: The cultural fair and sporting events are expected to attract visitors from across the country, supporting the local economy during Ramadan.
Related Reading
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