In a decisive move that reflects his unwavering commitment to housing initiatives, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has ordered the construction of 250,000 new housing units. The directive came during a high-profile meeting focused on reviewing and discussing the Finance Bill for the year 2024. Out of the total, 100,000 units will be in the form of social rental housing while the remaining 150,000 will fall under rural housing grants.
President Tebboune’s latest order serves as an extension of his electoral promise made in 2019 to construct one million housing units between 2020 and 2024. In a statement to representatives of national media outlets last August, the President emphasized that “75 percent of his commitments to the Algerian people have been realized,” reiterating his pledge to defend the middle class and to continue various housing programs.
The President also underscored the ongoing nature of housing projects in various categories, indicating that “housing will always be a priority for the state.” He highlighted the importance of home ownership to the Algerian mentality, stating that Algerians feel unsettled if they live as tenants.
Moreover, President Tebboune confirmed the continuation of the rent-to-own housing program, known as the ADL formula, as it targets the middle class that “must be protected for it is the backbone of the country.” He cautioned that societal balance would be jeopardized if this segment collapsed. “We must continue to address the issues facing the middle class, and there is no other solution than rent-to-own,” the President said. He added that “housing has become fully Algerian,” as it no longer burdens the state with foreign currency expenditure. All construction materials used, such as cement and ceramics, are domestically produced, marking a departure from past practices.
On the subject of rural housing grants, the President considered it one of Algeria’s “major successes,” resolving countless issues and encouraging numerous families from rural areas to return to their original regions. Demand for such housing continues to grow, especially given that these homes meet essential needs.
The considerable strides in housing since President Abdelmadjid Tebboune assumed office reiterate the high priority given to tackling one of the most enduring issues that have plagued Algerians for decades. The continuous on-ground assessments by the Minister of Housing, Urban Planning, and the City, Mohamed Tarek Belaribi, across the country further demonstrate the government’s commitment to fulfilling its promises within announced timelines.
Additionally, the Minister warned that there will be no tolerance for those falling behind in completing scheduled housing projects, echoing a “continuous assessment” approach. He previously vowed that any delays in delivering projects within the set deadlines would result in accountability measures.
The robust action in the housing sector is a compelling testament to the Algerian leadership’s devotion to resolving key challenges and enhancing the quality of life for its citizens.
