Minister Jellal Meets AfDB on Railway Project Funding

Algeria's Minister of Public Works and Basic Infrastructures, Abdelkader Jellal, met on Tuesday with a delegation from the African Development Bank (AfDB) to discuss strengthening cooperation in financing infrastructure projects, particularly the development of the national railway network. The working session focused on the progress of preparations for the 495-kilometer railway line linking Laghouat, Ghardaïa, and El Menia. This vital project is co-financed by the African Development Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).

The meeting involved presentations on the technical and organizational aspects of the project, including the resources and equipment allocated for the launch of construction works. Discussions also covered the master plan for establishing railway equipment maintenance centers and institutions along the corridor, designed to ensure sustainable operation and future network expansion. The AfDB delegation praised the level of preparations and efforts undertaken by Algeria, acknowledging the integration of training and employment requirements into the project's development to enhance its economic and social impacts.

Minister of Vocational Training and Education, Nassima Arhab, also participated in the discussions, addressing the project's human resource needs, training opportunities, and mechanisms to align vocational training programs with the specialized professions required. Participants emphasized the importance of continued coordination between the relevant sectors and the AfDB to facilitate the project's successful implementation, ensuring the availability of a qualified workforce and linking training offers to labor market demands.