The water resources sector will benefit from an envelope of 894.8 billion dinars in commitment authorizations for 2027, an increase of 141% compared to 2026. This surge aims to fund major structural projects related to water security, seawater desalination, and the enhancement of drinking water supply.
Presenting his department’s budget before the Finance and Budget Committee of the National People’s Assembly on Tuesday afternoon, during the review of the 2027 Finance Bill, the Minister of Water Resources, Lounes Bouzegza, stressed that growing water demand represents one of the main challenges facing the sector.
This pressure stems notably from urban expansion, the creation of new towns and urban hubs, the extension of drinking water and sanitation networks, alongside rising requirements from the agricultural and industrial sectors. Compounding these factors are climate change impacts and irregular rainfall, which heighten strain on water reserves.
To meet these demands, the sector’s allocated funding provides 894.801 billion dinars in commitment authorizations, representing a 141% rise over the previous fiscal period. Payment credits reach 697.367 billion dinars, up 31% from 2026.
Investment accounts for the primary share of the sector’s allocated budget. Commitment authorizations directed toward investment amount to 778.024 billion dinars, or 87% of the total sum. This funding will allow the launch of 388 new investment initiatives and the revaluation of 63 projects within the ongoing program.
Payment credits assigned to investment stand at 580.590 billion dinars. According to the minister, this financial expansion will support structural projects with national strategic impact, particularly downstream connections for seawater desalination plants in Chlef, Mostaganem, and Tlemcen.
Investment schemes focus primarily on mobilizing water resources, reinforcing water security, delivering drinking and industrial water, expanding agricultural irrigation, as well as managing sanitation and environmental protection. Funding is also earmarked for financial transfers and administrative positions.
During discussions, committee members questioned the minister regarding credits allocated in 2027 for seawater desalination, associated capital expenditures, and operational timelines for new plants.
Deputies also addressed budgetary measures concerning the reuse of treated wastewater, support for agricultural irrigation, and the activation of the water police force. Protecting desalination facilities and implementing a targeted program to safeguard urban areas against rain-induced flooding were also among the concerns raised.
Further remarks focused on drinking water supply disruptions reported across certain provinces, boosting storage capacity, and renewing distribution networks to minimize leakage. In this regard, committee members insisted on rehabilitating municipal sanitation systems across local communities to safeguard public health.