Tunisia is confronted with five major climate risks: recurrent heatwaves, drought and the resulting scarcity of resources amid rising population demand, floods, and coastal erosion, according to Hazem Krichène, a specialist in environmental and climate risk modeling.
He explained that between 1986 and 2016, Tunisia recorded an average annual coastal erosion rate of 70 cm, the highest in the region.
On Express FM, he highlighted that in 2024, Tunisia experienced the most intense heatwaves in its history among African countries, compared to the previous two decades.
He warned that if this trend continues at the same pace as the past twenty years, it could lead to an annual GDP decline of 5.9%.
He also noted that heatwaves increase energy consumption by 40–50%, placing a heavy burden on a country already weakened by its lack of energy independence. Thermal stress also has a direct and measurable impact on labor productivity.
Krichène pointed out that the effects of the U.S.-led war against Iran, especially in the oil sector, directly impact Tunisia’s trade balance, given its energy import dependence and limited energy autonomy.
He explained that the energy deficit reached 53%, showing that Tunisia has yet to make tangible progress in energy efficiency.
The expert emphasized that Tunisia must advance its energy policy, accelerate the energy transition, invest in new and renewable energies and finance innovative projects to address challenges posed by climate change and technological developments.
