Environmental and Economic Struggles in Tunisia's Gafsa Valley Amid Phosphate Demand
- Tunisia's environment and Gafsa Valley residents are suffering due to the phosphate boom.
- Kais Saied's government is trying to capitalize on the demand for phosphate, leading to negative consequences.
- The exploitation of critical minerals is causing harm to both the environment and local communities.
As Tunisia's government seeks to leverage its phosphate reserves amidst a financial crisis, the residents of Gafsa Valley are facing significant environmental and social challenges. The region, rich in phosphate rocks, has historically been a vital contributor to the country's economy, accounting for 15 percent of total exports. However, the local population, particularly in mining towns like Redeyef, is grappling with severe pollution and health issues, as highlighted by resident Abdelbaset Ben Hmida, who described the pervasive "black dust" from mining activities. The phosphate industry, once managed by French interests, is now dominated by the public Company of Gafsa Phosphates (CPG), which locals perceive as a "state within a state." The region has a history of unrest, with past riots suppressed under the Ben Ali regime. Activism for workers' rights continues, as exemplified by Akremi, a miner's son who was imprisoned for advocating for job opportunities. Despite Tunisia's position as the fourth-largest phosphate reserve holder globally, the country has seen a decline in its global ranking, exacerbated by local protests against mining operations. At the recent COP28 conference, discussions focused on the transparency of mining supply chains critical for the green energy transition. In Gafsa, the Ben Hmida family is pursuing legal action with civil society organizations to address environmental grievances, despite the absence of a Constitutional Court to enforce their rights. The Tunisian Constitution guarantees a healthy environment, yet the lack of judicial mechanisms raises concerns about the effectiveness of these protections. The ongoing blockade of phosphate production sites by unemployed activists since the 2008 revolt has led to unintended consequences, including increased air pollution from stockpiled phosphates. This situation has fueled a narrative among wealthier coastal regions that blames local activism for Tunisia's economic decline, as the country struggles to balance environmental concerns with the urgent need for economic recovery.