Algeria is making significant strides in strengthening its national water security through ambitious structural projects and the integration of innovative technological solutions. This comprehensive strategy was highlighted by Minister of Hydraulics, Lounès Bouzegza, during the opening of the 21st International Exhibition of Water Equipment, Technologies, and Services (SIEE-Pollutec) at the Pins Maritimes Exhibition Palace in Algiers.

Algeria

Minister Bouzegza underscored the substantial progress achieved in recent years, attributing it to President Abdelmadjid Tebboune's program aimed at ensuring long-term national water resilience. A cornerstone of this strategy is the expansion of seawater desalination capacity, alongside the optimization of conventional water resources.

In a major announcement, Minister Bouzegza revealed the imminent launch of three new desalination plants in the western regions of Tlemcen, Chlef, and Mostaganem. Each facility is projected to boast an impressive production capacity of 300,000 cubic meters per day. These new plants are designed not only to serve coastal wilayas but also to extend water supply to several inland wilayas, including El Bayadh, Tiaret, Saïda, and Naâma, thereby ensuring a more balanced water distribution in the short term.

Currently, Algeria operates a robust network of 19 desalination stations, providing substantial water production. This infrastructure already supplies desalinated water to 16 coastal wilayas and three inland wilayas: Blida, Bouira, and Sidi Bel Abbès. Furthermore, the Minister noted recent improvements in water supply across the southern regions, bolstered by enhanced exploitation of groundwater resources and the operational efficiency of demineralization stations in Tindouf and Tamanrasset. The national network of major water transfers also plays a crucial role in addressing deficits in various wilayas.

Reflecting on the recent meteorological conditions, Minister Bouzegza reported a significant improvement in dam filling rates, which now exceed 60%. Several dams have even reached 100% capacity following recent heavy rainfall, positively impacting groundwater regeneration and enhancing the public potable water distribution service.

During his tour of the SIEE-Pollutec exhibition, Minister Bouzegza commended national expertise within the sector and the growing adoption of new technologies. He specifically highlighted smart meters and electronic devices for remote network management, real-time data collection, water consumption optimization, and leak reduction. The Minister also visited the stand of the National Agency for Water Resources (ANRH), where he was briefed on projects focused on flood protection for cities using advanced forecasting models.

A presentation on the Algerian Water Desalination Company (EADE), a Sonatrach subsidiary, showcased its strategic role in bolstering national water security. The event also featured the launch of 'Qotra AI,' a new artificial intelligence-powered application developed by the Algiers Water and Sanitation Company (SEAAL). Qotra AI aims to revolutionize digital network management, optimize water distribution, detect anomalies, and report leaks, ensuring uninterrupted public service.

SIEE-Pollutec, running until June 4, brings together 170 exhibitors from 16 countries, serving as a vital platform for showcasing technological innovations and solutions geared towards advancing Algeria's water sector and environmental preservation efforts.

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