Minister Djellaoui Mobilizes Teams for Alger-Tamanrasset Railway Acceleration
Mobilization efforts are intensifying for the strategic Alger-Tamanrasset railway project, with a strong focus on accelerating its implementation. This initiative is designed to play a pivotal role in valorizing the rich resources of Algeria's Grand South and is expected to significantly bolster economic integration with the African continent. Officials anticipate the project's delivery by 2028, underscoring its importance for the country's national development strategy.
Minister of Public Works and Basic Infrastructure, Abdelkader Djellaoui, recently convened fourteen operators involved in the extensive project to review preparation progress and secure necessary funding. Among the attendees were representatives from the National Agency for Railway Investment Studies and Monitoring (Anesrif), Infra Rail, Cosider TP, Cosider OA, SNTP, Engoa, Sero Est, Sapta, Seti Rail, Saeti, the East Public Works Laboratory (LTPO), and Chinese groups CRCC and CCECC. Discussions specifically addressed the launch preparations for sections connecting Laghouat to Ghardaïa and El-Meniaâ, covering 495 kilometers, as well as the El Meniaâ-PK 216 segment and the 213-kilometer Tamanrasset–Moulay Lahcen section.
Algeria has opted for external financing for this nationally significant infrastructure project, securing interest from both the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), of which Algeria is a member. The AfDB demonstrated its commitment by disbursing nearly $900 million in July, marking the first external financing for a basic infrastructure project in Algeria. This initial funding could potentially be followed by the IsDB's involvement in the project in the near future. Minister Djellaoui also held meetings with officials from both banks to foster cooperation and support for large-scale railway initiatives across Algeria.
Beyond its immediate logistical benefits, the Alger-Tamanrasset railway holds substantial geo-economic implications, aiming to create a high-value-added economic corridor linking the Mediterranean with Sahelian countries. This acceleration aligns with Algeria's broader strategy to develop natural resources in its southern regions and enhance its position within the evolving African market. The project is expected to significantly stimulate economic activity along its route, contributing to the transformation of southern Algeria into a new hub for production and transit, consistent with multiple ongoing structuring projects.
