TUNIS, March 4, 2026 — The World Bank and the Government of Tunisia are expanding their partnership to strengthen the country’s climate and disaster resilience through an additional US$50 million financing for the Tunisia Integrated Disaster Resilience Program (ResCat), bringing the total program to US$125 million. This scale-up focuses on urban flood protection in Western Tunis, Gabès, and Djerba, building on earlier interventions in Bizerte, Monastir, and Nabeul. The expansion comes in response to heightened flood risks, including severe rainfall in January 2026—the heaviest in over 70 years—that caused widespread disruption across several regions.
The expanded program is expected to benefit more than 660,000 people in densely populated corridors and key economic hubs. Investments are designed to protect livelihoods, keep businesses operational, safeguard jobs, and create employment opportunities linked to the operation and maintenance of flood protection infrastructure. By integrating physical infrastructure with modern hydrometeorological systems, early warning mechanisms, and disaster risk financing, the program aims to deliver a comprehensive and coordinated approach to urban resilience.
Since the program’s launch in 2021, ResCat has already helped protect nearly 170,000 people from urban flooding and supported pilot early warning systems. The initiative has strengthened national disaster risk management institutions, including efforts to establish a permanent coordination structure and a national disaster risk financing strategy.
The additional financing reinforces Tunisia’s proactive approach to risk-informed disaster management, combining resilient infrastructure, early warning systems, and financial protection measures. This integrated strategy is expected to enhance the country’s capacity to respond to floods, safeguard communities, and support inclusive and sustainable development.
