President Kais Saied of Tunisia called for revitalizing the phosphate sector and addressing the phosphogypsum issue in Gabes. He emphasized the necessity of restoring production levels, protecting workers’ rights, and using treated wastewater for phosphate washing. Additionally, he urged accountability regarding the Mezzouna plant closure.
Tunisia’s President Kais Saied has called for the phosphate sector to regain and surpass its previous production levels, during a meeting with Minister of Industry, Energy, and Mines, Fatma Thabet Chiboub. He emphasized the importance of ensuring workers’ rights amid challenging conditions and the need to restore public facilities that have deteriorated or vanished.
President Saied also advocated for a new strategy to wash phosphate using treated wastewater instead of potable water. He stressed the importance of resolving the phosphogypsum issue in Gabes, suggesting that this byproduct could be utilized without causing environmental harm. The President referenced studies from over a decade ago that confirmed the feasibility and safety of this method.
Additionally, Saied instructed officials to prioritize a permanent solution for the Mezzouna plant in Sidi Bouzid, which is affiliated with the Gafsa Chemical Group. He demanded accountability from those responsible for the plant’s closure and the subsequent job losses.
President Kais Saied emphasized the urgent need to rejuvenate phosphate production in Tunisia and address environmental concerns associated with phosphogypsum. His commitment includes ensuring worker rights and the restoration of essential public facilities. Furthermore, he advocated for innovative methods in phosphate processing and accountability for the impacts of plant closures.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
