President Kais Saied underscored the urgency of reviving phosphate production and addressing phosphogypsum management in Gabes. He emphasized surpassing previous production levels, ensuring worker rights, restoring public facilities, and utilizing treated wastewater in phosphate washing. Furthermore, he directed efforts towards a permanent solution for the Mezzouna plant’s challenges.
In a recent meeting at Carthage Palace, President Kais Saied emphasized the urgent need to restore phosphate production in Tunisia and address the phosphogypsum issue in Gabes. The gathering included the Minister of Industry, Energy, and Mines, Fatma Thabet Chiboub, where the President articulated his commitment to not only reverting the phosphate sector to its original productivity but also exceeding it while ensuring worker rights and acknowledging the difficult conditions they face.
Furthermore, President Saied highlighted the necessity of reconstructing public facilities that have deteriorated or vanished over time. He proposed a new strategy for phosphate washing that utilizes treated wastewater instead of potable water and reiterated the quest for a permanent solution to the phosphogypsum dilemma in Gabes, suggesting that the byproduct could be used without compromising environmental safety.
The President referenced prior studies conducted by engineers and specialists over a decade earlier, which validated the viability and safety of such practices. Additionally, President Saied directed officials to promptly seek a lasting resolution for the Mezzouna plant in Sidi Bouzid, under the Gafsa Chemical Group, and mandated accountability for those responsible for its closure and the associated job losses.
In summary, President Kais Saied is actively advocating for the revitalization of Tunisia’s phosphate sector and the resolution of environmental issues related to phosphogypsum. His administration aims to enhance production, protect workers’ rights, and implement innovative approaches to water usage in mining. The focus also includes the urgent need to address the Mezzouna plant’s situation and ensure accountability for its operational challenges.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
