Algeria Plans Significant Water Investment for 2027

Algeria's Ministry of Water Resources has proposed an 894.8 billion Algerian dinar budget for 2027, marking a 141% increase from 2026. This significant allocation was presented by the Minister of Water Resources, Lonis Bouzqza, during a parliamentary committee meeting on Tuesday. The budget aims to address growing water demands due to urban expansion and increased needs from agricultural and industrial sectors.

The proposed budget includes 697.3 billion dinars for expenditures, a 31% increase from 2026. Of the total budget, 778.02 billion dinars are earmarked for new investments, targeting 388 new projects and the reassessment of 63 ongoing ones. Key projects include desalination plants in Chlef, Mostaganem, and Tlemcen, as well as infrastructure for urban water supply and agricultural irrigation.

Bouzqza highlighted that the significant increase in investment is driven by the need to secure strategic national projects. These include enhancing water supply for drinking and industrial use, improving agricultural irrigation, and protecting the environment. The budget also allocates funds for administrative transfers and financial positions within the ministry.

The parliamentary committee, chaired by Abdelnour Belaarbi, discussed the proposed budget with the presence of key officials, including Ahmed Badrislam Belqot, Vice President of the Council, Hani Lahssen, head of the parliamentary group of the Free, and Najiba Jilali, Minister of Parliamentary Relations.

CONTEXT: Algeria faces increasing water demands due to rapid urbanization and industrial growth. The proposed budget reflects the government's commitment to ensuring water security and supporting economic development through strategic investments in water infrastructure.