A multi-country programme concludes, demonstrating that inclusive governance strengthens urban climate resilience and improves water access for thousands. A landmark initiative designed to place women at the center of water governance in North African cities marked its completion today. The Women and Sustainable Cities programme, funded by the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs and implemented by Cities Alliance with local partners, has spent the past two and a half years empowering women in Sebkha (Mauritania), Figuig (Morocco), and Kairouan (Tunisia), Cities Alliance reports. The programme reached 2,532 people,…
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Fitch Upgrades Tunisian Banks UBCI and ATB, Citing Improved Sovereign Outlook
International ratings agency Fitch has upgraded the credit ratings of two major Tunisian banks, Union Bancaire pour le Commerce et l’Industrie (UBCI) and Arab Tunisian Bank (ATB), citing an improved operating environment following a recent upgrade of the Tunisian government’s own rating. The decision signals a cautiously optimistic view of the Tunisian banking sector’s stability amid broader economic challenges. Key Takeaways: Rationale Behind the Ratings According to Fitch, the credit profiles of Tunisian banks are heavily influenced by the government’s financial health. Banks maintain significant exposure to the state through…
Acclaimed Auteur Nuri Bilge Ceylan to Lead Jury at 46th Cairo International Film Festival
The Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF) has named Palme d’Or-winning Turkish director Nuri Bilge Ceylan as the President of the International Competition Jury for its 46th edition, scheduled for November 12–21, 2025. Ceylan, a towering figure in contemporary world cinema, is celebrated for his humanist dramas and meticulous visual style. His acclaimed body of work includes Winter Sleep, which won the top prize at the Cannes Film Festival in 2014, as well as multiple Cannes awards for films like Uzak, Once Upon a Time in Anatolia, and Three Monkeys. In a statement, CIFF President…
Tunisia Turns to Chinese Tech and Training to Combat Soaring Youth Unemployment
Facing a youth unemployment crisis nearing 40%, Tunisia is deepening its partnership with China to equip its next generation with critical digital skills and stimulate job creation through technology transfer and specialized training programs. The strategic move was highlighted at the recent China–Arab States Expo, where Tunisian diplomat Anis Touati outlined how initiatives from Chinese tech giants are providing tangible opportunities. Programs like Huawei’s ICT Academy and its “Seeds for the Future” are enabling Tunisian students to gain coveted international certifications and compete on a global stage. The cooperation, now…
Tunisian delegation to visit Tripoli and Zliten in late September for reconstruction deals
The Tunisian Export Promotion Center (CEPEX) announced plans to hold professional and partnership meetings in both Tripoli and Zliten from September 21 to 25. According to the Center’s statement, the meetings will focus on manufacturers of building materials, architects, construction contractors, as well as specialists in interior and exterior design. The statement added that this initiative offers a unique opportunity for Tunisian companies to establish business relations and partnerships with Libyan economic actors working in construction, public works, and building materials sectors. The Center invited interested Tunisian companies to confirm…
Tunisia’s Central Bank Projects 3.2% Economic Growth in 2025
Tunisia’s Central Bank (BCT) forecasts economic growth of 3.2 percent in 2025, driven largely by a rebound in tourism, stronger agricultural performance, and a long-awaited recovery in phosphate production. According to the Bank’s projections, industrial output is expected to expand by 3.3 percent, supported by the government’s recent pledge of €164 million in new investments for the phosphate sector. The government’s strategy aims to boost annual phosphate production to 8.5 million tons next year, with a target of reaching 14 million tons by 2030. Officials hope the plan will help…
Tunisia Posts 1.4% Growth in 2024 Amid Macroeconomic Stabilization Efforts
Tunisia returned to moderate growth of 1.4% in 2024 after stagnating the previous year, driven by a strong agricultural season and a rebound in services, particularly tourism, according to Central Bank Governor Fathi Nouri. The expansion, fueled mainly by domestic demand and investment recovery, offset weak industrial output linked to sluggish Eurozone demand and difficulties in the extractive sector. Unemployment eased slightly to 16%, while inflation fell to 6.2% by year-end, down from 8.1% in 2023, thanks to lower commodity prices and a stable dinar. On the external front, the…
The 59th Carthage International Festival: A Cultural Lighthouse Shining Across the Arab World
From July 19 to August 21, 2025, the historic Roman Theatre of Carthage hosted a dazzling sequence of concerts and cultural events as part of the 59th Carthage International Festival. Since its founding in 1964, the festival has been a living memory for Tunisians and a cultural beacon for the Arab world and beyond. Mohamed Qarni – Min Qa‘ al-Khabia The festival opened with a distinctly Tunisian evening led by Mohamed Qarni and his project “Min Qa‘ al-Khabia.” Blending traditional Tunisian sounds with modern arrangements, Qarni offered a performance that…
Mai Farouk Pays Glorious Tribute to Umm Kulthum at Carthage Festival
The Carthage International Festival lit up last night as Egyptian singer Mai Farouk delivered a stirring tribute to Umm Kulthum, marking the 50th anniversary of the legendary diva’s passing. Held on the historic stage of the Roman theater, the concert drew a capacity audience, uniting generations in a shared celebration of Arab musical heritage. From the opening note, Farouk’s commanding voice and elegant stage presence evoked the spirit of Umm Kulthum while offering her own artistic interpretation. The audience, both young and old, responded with admiration and emotion, transforming the…
Sharm El-Sheikh Youth Theater Festival Unveils Poster for Landmark 10th Edition Honoring Ilham Shaheen
The Sharm El-Sheikh International Youth Theater Festival has unveiled the official poster for its 10th edition, kicking off what promises to be a landmark celebration of a decade dedicated to young theatrical talent. Under the presidency of festival founder and director Mazen El-Gharabawy, this year’s edition reaffirms the festival’s enduring commitment to peace, creativity, and cultural exchange through the power of youth theater. A Tribute to Ilham Shaheen Marking its 10th anniversary, the 2025 edition is dedicated to acclaimed Egyptian actress Ilham Shaheen, in recognition of her bold and transformative…