Indicators for sustainable water resources management in semi-arid areas: case study of Tunisia in north Africa

摘要

Tunisia ranks among the countries with a high water scarcity. The annual water ratio, 420 m~3 per capita, is actually covering all water uses. Through ambitious programs of water mobilization, Tunisia has continuously looked for satisfying all water demands of different sectors. The analysis of water system's performance based on indicators, has lead to the identification of new significant rules for water management to ensure a sustainable socio-economic development. Twenty eight indicators are selected and considered to be efficient for the assessment of water resources management sustainability. They are grouped into three main domains of water system regarding the physical aspects, socio-economic aspects, and policies involved in the water sector. Seven strategic objectives are identified and can be reached through sixteen operating programs. These latter were approved by the technical comity of sustainable development in Tunisia.