President Kais Saied of Tunisia has called for the restoration of phosphate production and a definitive solution to the phosphogypsum issue in Gabes. He emphasized the need for sustainable practices in the phosphate sector, ensuring worker rights, and rebuilding public facilities. The President instructed officials to expedite solutions for the Mezzouna plant and hold responsible parties accountable for job losses.
In Tunisia, President Kais Saied has emphasized the urgent need to restore phosphate production and address the issue of phosphogypsum in Gabes. This directive came during a recent meeting with Minister of Industry, Energy, and Mines, Fatma Thabet Chiboub at the Carthage Palace. The President expressed that the phosphate sector should not only return to its previous production levels but should ideally surpass them while ensuring the rights of workers amid the sector’s challenging conditions.
President Saied highlighted the necessity of rebuilding several deteriorated public facilities associated with phosphate production. He also stressed the importance of developing a sustainable washing strategy for phosphate, advocating the use of treated wastewater instead of potable water. Furthermore, he called for a definitive solution to the phosphogypsum problem in Gabes, underlining the potential to utilize this byproduct without adverse environmental effects.
In his remarks, the President referenced studies from over ten years ago conducted by engineers and specialists that affirm the feasibility of this environmentally safe approach. Additionally, he directed officials to prioritize resolving the issues surrounding the Mezzouna plant in Sidi Bouzid, which is linked to the Gafsa Chemical Group. The President insisted on holding accountable those responsible for the plant’s closure and the subsequent loss of jobs.
In conclusion, President Kais Saied’s statements highlight a focused effort to revitalize Tunisia’s phosphate industry while addressing environmental challenges associated with phosphogypsum. His commitment to restoring production, ensuring worker rights, and employing sustainable practices reflects a comprehensive strategic vision for the sector’s future. By demanding accountability for job losses, the President aims to create a more sustainable and responsible mining sector in Tunisia.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
