Please note this is only provisional information based on the data our research team had access to.
Tunis transport updates 20 August-10 September
Current cases 10.9.21: 681664
Current deaths 10.9.21: 24086
Tunis
Government initiatives
3.9.21. Residents can travel for free on the 4 September to get to vaccine centre. A text message must be shown to officials with the purpose of the journey. Free transport will be from 8 am to 3 pm.
28.8.21. 70 buses have been mobilised to ensure the transport of people to vaccination centres in greater Tunis. These buses will transport those over the age of 40 for free and those between the ages of 15 and 17. Services from neighbourhoods to vaccine centres will be from 6.15-7 pm
20.8.21. Tunisia imposes a 10-day confinement period for unvaccinated travellers coming from abroad. A list of hotels adhering to compulsory confinement will be published later. Those who have been vaccinated will not be subject to the confinement period.
http://www.rtci.tn/tunisie-impose-confinement-obligatoire-10-jours-les-arrivants-vaccines/
Tunis transport updates 5 August-19 August
Current cases 19.8.21: 632328
Current deaths 19.8.21: 22304
Government initiatives
19.8. The curfew hours are now from 0:00 until 5 am throughout Tunisia. Public and private gatherings are prohibited except for those who are vaccinated. Restaurants will have to remove their chairs and close at 10pm. All travellers must present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours. Those who are fully vaccinated will not have to quarantine, but those who are not will have to quarantine for 10 days.
15.8. There is free transport for those who are being vaccinated on the 15 August 2021.
Links
Tunis transport updates 21 July to 4 August
Current cases 4.8.21: 599594
Current deaths 4.8.21. 20410
Government initiatives
2.8.21. From the 1 August 21 the confinement period during weekends has been cancelled. Travel within central Tunis is authorised, but it is prohibited to enter or exit Tunis, except if you have a negative PCR test or it is an emergency. The curfew period is from 10pm until 5 am – it is prohibited to drive during these hours. Restaurants and cafés need to close at 7 pm. All events and public and private gatherings are prohibited
26.7.21. President Kais Saied imposes a night curfew from the 26 July to the 27 August from 7 pm to 6 am. The movement of people and vehicles between towns is prohibited during these times, except for emergencies or essential travel.
26.7.21. The president of Tunisia, Kais Saied declares a state of emergency and dismisses the prime minister Hichem Mechichi. This was after a national demonstration called the July 25 movement.
Other
28.7.21 Transtu have announced that there will be additional services on all light metro lines
from the 26th July 21. This is a response to the increased demand before curfew hours.
Links
Tunisia
Current cases: 438945
Current deaths: 15261
Tunis
Government initiatives:
1.7.2021. New health measures are introduced in Tunisia. There is a curfew from 8 pm to 5 am throughout Tunisia. All public events such as parties, cultural events, conferences and weddings are banned. It is also prohibited to use the inside areas of restaurants and cafés. Prayers are suspended. Shopping centres are limited to 30% capacity. In the governates of Tunis, the governor can decide to make targeted containment measures at the delegation level to isolate clusters, but also certain neighbourhoods. This can include a ban on entering and leaving the governate. This can also include the reduction of shops and restaurants if necessary. In Tunisia, travellers who are not wearing a mask can get a fine of 60 Tunisian dinars. It is strongly advised that travellers have completed their Covid-19 vaccinations before travelling to Tunisia. Those who are unvaccinated over 12 are required to show a PCR test that is conducted within 72 hours prior to travelling. Travellers are required to self-isolate for 7 days.
26.6. Tunisia is added to the British government’s red list.
25.6.2021. General confinement is announced in Manouba, Kef and Tataounine. This will only affect areas with 400 cases per 100.000 inhabitants
24.6.2021. The scientific committee in Tunisia have announced that there will be general confinement in several governates and that vaccinations will be intensified within these regions.
Other
3.7.2021. After announcing new departure and arrival times due to the curfew, Transtu decided also to educate its passengers on the need to always buy a ticket – and not jump on the train without a ticket. Transtu has experienced 267 incidents with theft of equipment and 554 cases of people throwing stones in 2020. These riots resulted in a reduction in train times and a falling number of passengers.
Links
Tunisia, Tunis.
23.6 May-11 June:
Current deaths: 13.365
Overall cases (11.6.21): 364819
Government initiatives
9.6.2021. The sacked president of the National Authority for the Fight against Corruption, Imed Boukhr has said that 20.000 doses of the AstraZenica vaccine have expired in Tunisia. This, however, is not uncommon, as other countries, such as Canada, have had the expiry date extended.
7.6.2021. Until the 27 June 2021 travelling between different regions of Tunisia is authorised, but compulsory confinement is expected in regions experiencing high levels of infections-
1.6.2021. Since the 1 June 2021 travellers (except children) need to have a PCR test done 72 hours before boarding a plane. They must isolate 7 days after entering Tunisia. Travellers also need to sign a health form and a commitment form. Travellers who have had the virus 6 weeks prior to travelling (and have a certificate for this) as well as vaccinated travellers who can show a QR code are exempt from this.
Other
29.5.2021. Transport prices are set to up and will be revealed soon.
28.5.2021. In an article in Gnet.tn it is reported how there has been a big increase in cycling during the pandemic, both amongst men and women. They join a Facebook group and then join groups of various levels – some for leisure, and some for work. Some took advantage of the travel ban during Ramadan to cycle when the roads were empty.
Links
8-22 May 2021
Current cases (22.5.2021): 334099
Current deaths (22.5.2021): 12182
Government initiatives
17. 5.2021. Activities resume and the general confinement is shortened. Schools reopen after students have been sent home for a month due to the Covid-19 crisis. Intercity transportation between regions resumed on the 14 May to alleviate the pressure of return trips.
16.5.2021. There is a curfew between 10 pm and 5 am every day. The government has also announced strengthening of measures to make people comply with the wearing of masks in enclosed spaces and on public transport. Governors have the possibly of isolating zones classified as high risk
10.5.2021.The national Transport Federation in Tunisia says that its affiliates in the irregular public transport sector (individual, collective, tourist hire and rural transport) have been authorised to work during the confinement period (May 9-16)
10.5.2021. The ministry of civil service has announced that the movement of employees without authorisation between the 8-16 May. Ministries, governorates, public establishments and other organisations are must draw up a list of employees who have to work face to face and notify them.
Other
9.5.2021. On the 9th of May there was general anger against the confinement measures. Traders, craftsmen and workers of all kinds joined a protest. In Tunis the central market was closed.
Links
Tunisia,Tunis
22 April-7 May 2021.
Total cases 7 May 2021: 318.236
Total deaths 7 May 2021: 11277
7.5. The government announces total confinement from Sunday the 9th May until Sunday the 16th May. There is a curfew from 7 pm to 5 am and it is prohibited to travel between cities, although there are some exceptions. All gatherings and sporting events are banned during this period. Essential services are excluded from this ban. More than 500 people are in intensive care and Tunisia is struggling with oxygen supplies.
5.5.2021. There was a two-hour strike starting at 11 am on the 5th May. All bus and rail networks were suspended. This was due to attacks on drivers.
4.5.2021. The scientific commission recommended general confinement during the two days of Eid. The commission is also suggesting a ban of travelling between governates.
3.5.2021. Vaccinated travellers will no longer have to quarantine in government approved hotels but need to show proof that they are vaccinated. They will need to comply with self-isolation at their place of residence. Since the 3 May the quarantine period has been extended from 5 to 7 days. Travellers must do a RT-PCR test between day 5 and 8 of self-isolation. Travellers coming for medical care in Tunisia need rapid screen at the airport on their arrival. Those who are travelling on organised trips need to show proof of a negative PCR test conducted within 72 at the time of boarding. Children under 12 years old are exempt from this measure. They have to commit to stay in groups, and respect Tunisian health protocol regarding accommodation and travel. From the 3 May there is curfew from 10 pm to 5 am, except in exceptional circumstances. Governors are able to isolate areas of high risk. If masks are not worn in closed public spaces and on transport, a person can be given a fine of 60 dinars. Private and public parties, weekly markets, forums and congresses are not allowed. Outdoor areas of cafes can remain open, but not indoor areas. It is expected that countries will be classified as red, orange and green for international travel with different rules and regulations.
Links
Tunisia
Transport report. 5 April- 21 April
18.4.2021. The government in Tunisia decides that it is prohibited to drive motorcycles, cars between 7 pm and 5 am, which includes public transport. The curfew is maintained at 10 pm. Classes are suspended in basic education schools, colleges and high schools. Businesses that do not comply with sanitary procedures will be suspended. There will be systematic PCR tests on Tunisian soil. Some areas will be closed if the cases are high. The private sector should encourage teleworking and limit face-to-face interactions.
8.4.2021. The head of government Hichem Mechichi and the president of UNICA (trade union for industry, trade and handicrafts) signed a declaration between the government and employers that includes 8 reflection committees that will deal with reforms e.g. in the area of transport.
8.4.2021. The general transport federation decides to postpone a strike on the 9 April intended to demand a reform of the transport industry and pay the agents (maritime, air and land transport), until May 20th 2021.
Links
Tunisia
Total cases 4.4.2021: 260044
Total deaths 4.4.2021: 8965
Government initiatives
24.3.2021. The prices of public transport will be revised on the 9 June 2021. The minister of Transport and Logistics, Moez Chakchouk also addressed the issue on digitalisation in public transport particularly regarding electronic payments
Other
4.4.2021. The American Agency of the Millennium challenge will finance two projects in Tunisia, one on water, and another on transport and trade. The estimated benefit is expected at 19.6%. This is expected to strengthen both national and international trade and lower prices in the transport sector
24.3.2021. The forum for integrated solutions for intelligent transport and the company ‘Be Wireless solutions’, as well as regional directors within local and regional authorities met at an event to launch a new intelligent transport system launched by Be Wireless, which is expected to improve the traveller experience in terms of time and comfort. It will include digital sales,online passenger information as well as seat reservations.
23.3.2021. The agents of the national company of Tunisian railways (SNCFT) started an unexpected strike on Tuesday the 22 March 2021 that caused railway transport to stop. The strike was launched to demand the financial rights of the agents and for a resumption of activities on the railway line N13.
Links
Tunisia
Total cases 1.4.2021: 260044
Total deaths 1.4.2021: 8965
Government initiatives
24.3.2021. The prices of public transport will be revised on the 9 June 2021. The minister of Transport and Logistics, Moez Chakchouk also addressed the issue on digitalisation in public transport particularly regarding electronic payments
Other
4.4.2021. The American Agency of the Millennium challenge will finance two projects in Tunisia, one on water, and another on transport and trade. The estimated benefit is expected at 19.6%. This is expected to strengthen both national and international trade and lower prices in the transport sector
24.3.2021. The forum for integrated solutions for intelligent transport and the company ‘Be Wireless solutions’, as well as regional directors within local and regional authorities met at an event to launch a new intelligent transport system launched by Be Wireless, which is expected to improve the traveller experience in terms of time and comfort. It will include digital sales,online passenger information as well as seat reservations.
23.3.2021. The agents of the national company of Tunisian railways (SNCFT) started an unexpected strike on Tuesday the 22 March 2021 that caused railway transport to stop. The strike was launched to demand the financial rights of the agents and for a resumption of activities on the railway line N13.
Links
Tunisia
Total cases 17.3.2021. 233.439
Total deaths 17.3.2021. 8463
Government initiatives
17.3. 2021. Tunisia receives the Pfizer vaccine (93.600 doses)
12.3.2021. Travellers who are arriving in Tunisia must go into confinement for 48 hours after entering Tunisia. They need to present a negative PCR test upon boarding which is taken within the last 72 hours. They must also perform a PCR test 48 hours after arriving in Tunisia. If the result is negative, the person can leave confinement.
13.3.2021. The national intraurban transport company will start its international bus line from Tunisia to Tripoli from the 19 March 2021.
11.3.2021. Maritime, air and land transport will be on strike on the 8.4.2021 to reform transport companies and to protest against the privatisation of the sector.
10.3.2021. The central bank governor of Tunisia says that the gender divide has been worsened by the covid-19 pandemic. He quotes a study by the UNDP on the economic impact of covid-19 in Tunisia. Monetary poverty could drop to 19.77% for women and 18.72% for men as a result of the pandemic.
9.3.2021. Tunisia received 30.000 doses of the Russian Vaccine Spuknik V. The vaccination programme will be launched on the 12 March starting with health professionals as a key priority.
8.3.2021 Curfew hours are now from 10 pm 5 am. The ban on movement between governates is lifted, but is replaced by a closure of regions that are experiencing an increasing numbers of cases. Cafes and restaurants will close at 8 pm. Compulsory confinement in hotels in cancelled, but there will be a 48 hour confinement period in a place of the traveller’s choice. Administrative hours will be from 8.30 am to 12.30 pm and 1.30 pm to 5.30 pm from Monday to Thursday, and on Fridays 8 am to 1 pm, and 2.30 to 5.30 pm.
8.3.2021. The Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer Tunisiens (SNCFT) announced that they will resume train services due to the alterations in curfew hours from 10 pm to 5am. The first train will leave Tunis station to Erriadh station at 5.30 am.
27.2.2021. The minister of transport in Tunisia said that there will soon be an increase in bus prices and metro prices.
Links
Tunisia
Current cases 27.2.2021: 231.964
Current deaths 27.2.2021: 7942
Tunis
Government implementations
19.2.2021. The Ministry of Transport and Logistics, Tunisair and TAV Tunisia reached an agreement to unblock the crisis and reschedule debts on the 19 February 2021.
Other
26.2.2021- Journalists, activists and influencers have started a campaign advocating for positive masculinity. The campaign responds to the violence against women during confinement. The project in Tunisia calls on men in Tunisia to demonstrate positive masculinity.
24.2.2021. Despite the impact of the pandemic business leaders in Tunisia are cautiously optimistic about the outlook for 2021 and the rebound in economic activity. This is based on a survey (economic situation barometer) focusing on health, political crisis, economic difficult and recurring tension. The effects of covid-19 have been particularly strong in the tourism, transport, textile and aeronautics sectors where 13% consider the impact to be very strong.
23.2.2021. The Tunisian Federation of Travel Agencies (FTAV) has asked the minister to make it compulsory for passengers to go through travel agencies. This is with the intention of involving travel agencies in the fight against covid-19. Tunisia welcomed 400.000 tourists in 2020.
20.2.2021. In an article in Lapress Chokri Gharbi points out that unemployment is on the rise due to the covid-19 pandemic and unemployment has gained new proportions following the dismissal of several staff. The unemployment rate rose to 17.4% in the fourth quarter of 2020. Companies have suffered because of the pandemic and urgently need financial resources.
17.2.2021. The Tunis-Carthage interchange will be open to traffic by April 2021. The project has costed about 68 million dinars. This road is considered an important infrastructure in Greater Tunis.
11.2.2021. On the 8th of February it was the international day of women and girls in science and in Tunis they held a press conference to shine a spotlight on women in society and women’s skills in various fields. Wiem Sfar Zaoui, who is an air traffic controller at Monastir, emphasised that 20%, or one in five women, hold a position of responsibility in the field of air transport.
Links
Tunisia
Current cases 9.2.2021: 218564
Current deaths 9.2.2021: 7332
Tunis
Government initiatives
8.2.2021. The first doses of the vaccine are expected in late February 2021.
5.2.2021. Passengers, who are entering Tunisia due to emergencies or deaths in their families must present a negative PCR test not exceeding 24 hours from that of the flight. Moreover, the passenger must present a death certificate of the deceased. The airline companies must verify these documents ensuring the family ties, and hand out documents to the health controls upon arrival. The passenger must wear a mask, keep a distance and stick to hand hygiene.
1.2.2021. From the 1 February travellers arriving in Tunisia will have to isolate themselves for 7 days at their expense in dedicated hotels. Only special vehicles will allow to transport them to these hotels
29.1.2021.The ministers for transport and logistics, communication technologies and the digital economy signed two strategic partnership agreements – one between the Tunisian post office and Tunis air an another between the Tunisian navigation company and the Tunisian post office. The agreements concern sales and electronic payments. Customers can join the Tunisian posts remote payment system using both international and national payment cards.
26.1.2021. Those who return to Tunisia on short trips (5 days or less) must present a negative PCR test taken 72 hours before boarding. They must also commit to compulsory confinement in a dedicated centre at their own expense and carry out a COVID-19 test on the 7th day. If this is negative, they can leave the centre. Exceptional authorisations can be given by the containment commission.
Other
27.1.2021. The general federation of secondary education has called for general confinement due to the catastrophic epidemiological situation. The federation also points to the lack of equipment in schools.
23.1.2021. On the 23rd January there were demonstrations in Tunis against police repression and to demand for better policies during the covid-19 pandemic, when family families are struggling with their finances. This follows several nights of political unrest and violence. The curfew between 8 and 5 am has been extended until mid February.
Links
Tunisia
Current cases 21.1.2021: 188.373
Current deaths 21.1.202: 5921
Government initiatives
18.1.2021. A return to almost normal will be observed on the 18 January after 4 days of general confinement. Administrative schedules will be restored in which officials will work every other day from the 18 to the 24 January. The Tunisian post office will be open from 8 am to 2 pm. The curfew will be from 8 pm to 5 am. Classes of all levels will be suspended until the 24 January. Transport services are authorised to transport people between governates if they have a permit. Individual, collective, and public transport will resume services. The targeted confinement is particularly concerned with the prohibition of demonstrations, gatherings and travel between cities, as well as the curfew and the organisation of work groups, and remote working. Mosques are open on the 18.1.2021 but the elderly are urged not to come. Shops will be reopened.
13.1.2020. The government in Tunisia decides to institute general confinement from the 14th to the 17th January, except the supply of vital sectors, and with a curfew from 4 pm to 6 am the following day. Private and public courses (e.g. basic education and higher education) are suspended from the 13th to the 24th January, as well as events, cafes and restaurants (take away allowed). Chairs will be removed from cafes. Private companies must opt for teleworking. There will be a system whereby workers work by alteration or remotely.
13.1.2021. The ministry of transport announced that urban transport will be limited to health care professionals, active professionals and cases of extreme necessity following the governments decision to declare general confinement from the 14-17 January. These measures have been taken to ensure that students can return to their cities within 24 hours, starting from Wednesday the 13th Jan. An appeal has been launched to reschedule internal Tunis air express flights. Public transport will resume on the 18th of January in compliance with the curfew.
Other
18.1.2021. For the fourth night in a row Tunisia is experiencing unrest (Ettadhamen, Intilaka, Zahrouni, Kasserine, Beja and Monastir (acts of looting and vandalism). The police are mobilised in these areas and have confronted young people who have initiated the unrest.
18.1.2021. Tunisair have said that they will keep the flight schedule unchanged during the four days of confinement from the 14-17 January. Tunisair invites its passengers to comply with health protocols
16.1.2021. In an article in Lapresse. Hela Sayadi reports that there were a lot of crowds on public transport just before general confinement was announced with scenes of passengers struggling to get a seat. In the article it is argued that the ministry of transport should improve transport services to offer a minimum of comfort, availability and safety.
15.1-16.2021. Clashes erupted between security forces and demonstrators in Sousse, Kef, Bizerte and Tunis (Cité Ettadhamen, Tébourba, Sidi Hssine). Security forces used tear gas to disperse demonstrators who were setting care tires on fire.
12.1.2021.The scientific committee to the fight against coronavirus held a meeting on the 12 January 2012 encouraging the application of stronger prevention methods – the wearing of masks and physical distancing and maybe they will unveil new positions related to schools, public transport and the regions worst hit by the pandemic
11.1.2021. The vaccine will be available in Tunisia at the end of March 2021 (free for everyone but not mandatory). Tunisia intends to vaccine 20% of the population to curb the virus and 30% to stop the virus. The curfew is in place from 8 pm-5 am 7 days a week.
Links
Draft report 22 December to 6 January 2021
Tunisia
Current cases (6.1.2021): 147, 061
Current deaths (6.1.2021): 4934
5.1.2021. All Algerians going to Tunisia must present relevant documentation and a negative PCR test
23.12.2020. Tunisia extends the curfew until the 15 January to control the spread of coronavirus. This will be from 8 pm to 5 am. The movement between governates is still now allowed. Gatherings are not allowed and cafes have to close at 7 pm. There is a ban on new year celebrations. Wearing a mask in all public places in addition to hand washing/sanitizing
21.12. 20. Tunisia suspends all flights from South Africa, United Kingdom and Australia following the new strain of the virus
Other
1.1.2021. According to Samir Dridi, the virus in Tunisia risks being trivialised, as more people are ignoring social distancing measures/mask use, even though the cases are rising.
23.12.2020. The Tunisian Association of Road Safety Ambassadors joins the Global Youth Coalition for Road Safety and launches a global awareness campaign called ‘compulsory confinement for young people. The campaign focuses on road safety, since many people die every day from preventable road accidents, and is conceptualised by young people themselves, who want to save lives and focus on road safety after covid. They use posters to put attention on road safety saying “I am iockdown until the roads are safe”.
19.12.2020. At the Tunisian national childhood organisation , the minister of transport and logistics emphasised the need to raise awareness campaigns about preventive covid-19 measures. The Tunisian National Railway Company (SNCFT) and the Tunis Transport Company (TRANSTU) will raise awareness campaigns regarding respecting health protocol.
Links
Draft report 5-21 December 2020
Tunisia
Current cases (21.12.2020): 121,718
Current deaths: (21.12.2020): 4199
Tunis
Government initiatives:
21.12.2020. Tunisia suspends all flights from United Kingdom, South Africa and Australia due to the new strain of coronavirus
21.12.2020. The president for the national office for family and population announced that Tunisia will face a third wave. He proposed focusing more on young people spreading the infection and explained that the increase is due to the return of gatherings.
17.12.2020. The curfew decided on the 6 December until 30 December will not be eased for new year festivity.
15.12.2020. The covid-19 vaccine in Tunisia should be available for free from the second quarter of 2021. The vaccine will not be compulsory. The ministry of health has signed an agreement to get two million doses.
14.12.2020. The Minister of Women, Family and Seniors, Imen Zahouani Houime, announced the launch of a national platform called “50 million African women have the floor” in Tunis in January 2021 (www.womenconnect.org). It was first initiated in Rwanda during a gender summit. This comes at the end of the first ‘African women’s decade 2010-2020 and the beginning of a new one 20-30. The platform seeks to work for the empowerment of women which according to the minister is particularly crucial during the covid-19 pandemic.
8.12.20. Travelling between governates is still prohibited except for work or study. These measures will remain in force until the 30.12.2020.
7.12.2020. Events such as exhibitions and seminars are suspended, and funerals can have max 30 people. Cafes and tea rooms can open until 7 pm but must put chairs and tables away at 4 pm. There must be no more than 30 people in private buses, and mask wearing is mandatory everywhere. For short stays (less than 5 days), travellers need to display a negative PCR test carried out 72 hours in advance.
Other
15.12.2020. The French development agency AFD published a list of the 10 best African startups. WiniCari, a Tunisian initiative was among these founded by Amor Sahnoun and Makrem Erguez. It allows bus companies to process traffic ad operation data of the bus fleet in real time. Customers can check their phones and see when a bus is expected to arrive on their phones in real time. They can also see the waiting time at the bus stop and adjust their trip accordingly.
11.12.2020. The Arab woman centre for training and research, Cawtar, launched the app Safeness. The app, which is meant to protect women on public transport, was created by the centre in collaboration with young people and students who were specialised within the field of technology. The app allows the users to app up to 5 trusted individuals who will receive notification when the user presses the red alarm button. The alert will show the time and location of the person who is experiencing the difficulty, and the trusted persons can alert the police or intervene. The app will also allow the user to make a voice recording that can serve as proof. Safeness is available in Tunisia and Morocco in more than 36 regions.
12.12.2020. The Tunisian Association of Democratic Women organised a conference about the rights of women in the agricultural sector. Raja Dahmani, a member of the organisation stressed the importance of addressing issues such as the difficulties of how agricultural workers transport themselves.
Links
Draft report 19 November to 4 December 2020
Tunisia
Current cases (3.12.2020): 98.072
Current deaths (3.12.2020): 3211
Government initiatives
3.12.2020The ministry of transport has begun working on the budget for 2021 which is up by 13.61 % compared to 2020.775.564 MD will be allocated to land transport, 19.437 MD to maritime and port transport and 12.113 MD to civil aviation, as well as to the support program (34.419 MD).
25.11.2020. Travellers who are travelling on organised trips to Tunisia are exempt from the 14-day quarantine.
22.11. The governors of Tunis, Ben Arous, Ariana and Manouba announced the resumption of prayers in the mosques on the 23.11.2020 if protective health measures are taken into account. Weekly markets will resume with distancing and masks, and restaurants can operate in the evenings offering takeaways until 7 pm. Some activities such as the organisation of workshops can resume.
Other
3.12.2020 Taxi drivers demonstrate in front of the ministry of transport following a call from the trade union centre. They are demanding work permits for their children
1.12.2020. The association of Tunisian women voters says that policies during the covid-19 crisis have not promoted women’s rights. They recommend the preparation and publication of gender data in all sectors with an adoption of procedures that support those affected by economic, social, domestic and electronic violence
1.12.2020. A new mobile app is launched ‘safeness’ that can help women in cases of violence in public spaces (sexual harassment, violence, and fights). The application allows women to be monitored remotely and to press an SOS button in times of danger.
1.12. Tunisian Minister Imene Zahouani Houimel and UN Women’s Representative for Tunisia Begoña Lasagabaster signed a memorandum with the ambition to foster bilateral cooperation in priority fields related to women’s economic empowerment, ending violence against women, leadership, security, peace, governance and planning. The agreement pays attention to gender mainstreaming in different national policies to cope with the consequences of COVID-19 and adopting programmes to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
25.11. In a blog post Alessandra Bajec writes about the vulnerabilities that are felt by female agricultural workers during the covid-19 pandemic, which has left them more exposed particularly regarding their economic and social insecurities.
22.11.2020. Bad weather affected transport in several regions, causing flooded roads and traffic jams, including the collapse of a roof in Tunis, killing one woman. Poor infrastructure and the absence of a disaster management and prevention made matters worse.
22.11. Transtu confirms the details that two buses collided in Tunis on Mohammed V Avenue, resulting in the injury of 42 passengers.
22.11. The metro was disrupted due to excessive rainwater.
22.11. The environment police carried out more than 200 checks to check that people are adhering to wearing facemasks, are not dumping waste on roads and that sidewalks are used correctly.
Links
. http://www.webdo.tn/2020/11/23/grand-tunis-coronavirus-nouvelles-mesures-annoncees/#.X7zmd2ieThc
http://www.webdo.tn/2020/11/25/tunisie-les-touristes-de-voyages-organises-exemptes-du-confinement/
Draft report 3 November to 18 November 2020
Tunisia
Current cases 18.11.2020: 83.772
Current deaths 18.11.2020: 2541
Tunis
Government initiatives:
15.11.2020. The head of government announced that the anti-covid measures will be extended for another three weeks. The curfew is from 8 pm to 5 am and weekends from 7 am to 5 am. There is a continuous ban on travel between governates and a ban on gatherings. Restaurants and cafes must close at 4 pm.
14.11.2020. The ministry of Transport has started a new project called Wasla Transport supported by the World Bank. It aims to produce decent and safe transport for female agricultural workers.
10.11.2020. Hichem Mechichi, the head of government, announced that it is necessary to follow health procedures due to the extremely difficult epidemiological situation. There will be a tightening of control of wearing masks, and more fines for offenders. There will be more security personnel at the borders between governates. There is a ban of more than 4 people except on public transport.
The minister of interior noted that more than 75.000 offenses have been recorded for not wearing masks in public spaces.
9.11.2020. The ministry of health announced that any person coming from abroad will have to present a negative PGR test when arriving from any country. The compulsory confinement period is 14 days but can be reduced to 7 days if a PGR test is negative (carried out at the expense of the traveller). This quarantine period will be mandatory on the 16 November 2020.
9.11.2020. Classes resumed for schoolchildren, college and high school students
15.11.2020. The exceptional administrative working hours are maintained from 8.30-1.pm and 11.30-5.30.
Other
11.11.2020. At a working session chaired by the Minister of Transport and Logistics, Moez Chakchouk and Huwei Tunisia, it was discussed how digital technologies could transform the transport sector
10.11.2020. In an article in gnet news people in the street were asked about the measures implemented by the government. Some explained that social distancing on public transport is not feasible in reality, and some people cannot afford to buy facemasks for the children. Rather than punishing people for non-compliance, one person asked thought that the state should support people. Others were more sceptical of the crisis management of the government arguing that there was corruption, or that the state had not provided good economic, health and social conditions.
6.11.2020. The public prosecutor opened an investigation following an incident of sexual harassment on the metro. Witnesses said that five individuals had harassed a young girl. Previously the ministry of transport had made a toll-free number (80100345) for women who are victims of sexual harassment.
31.10.2020. The UN-Women Representative for Tunisia and Libya, Begona Lasagabast says that women in both Tunisia and Libya play an important role in the economic development of the countries. In Tunisia she says civil society has played a crucial role.
Links
http://kapitalis.com/tunisie/2020/11/10/coronavirus-les-nouvelles-conditions-dentree-en-tunisie/
http://www.webdo.tn/2020/11/06/tunisie-enseignement-reprise-des-cours-le-9-novembre/#.X6pkdGieThc
Draft report 17 October to 2 November 2020
Tunisia
Current cases in Tunisia (2.11.2020): 61,609
Current deaths in Tunisia (2.11.2020): 791
Tunis
Government initiates:
29.10.2020 The government in Tunisia imposes new virus restrictions. In addition to the nation-wide night-time curfew, schools will shut and inter region travel is banned. The prime minister did not say how long these measures would be in place. It is still permitted to travel to other regions of the country if the purpose is work. Cafes will shut from 4 pm, and it will be prohibited to gather more than 4 people. Places of worship will be shut for two weeks. A public health state of emergency has been declared until the 10th November 2020.
26.10.2020. The curfew is extended until the 6th November in central Tunis. It is from Monday to Friday from 9pm to 5 am, and weekends from 7pm to Am. Office hours have been adjusted into sessions to prevent the spread of covid-19. The first session is from 8.30-1.30 and the second session from 12.30 to 5.30. Masks are still mandatory on public and private transport as well as open or closed spaces. This also includes private cars when the driver is carrying passengers. Chicha smoking is strictly prohibited. All gatherings and events are still banned (cultural, sporting, scientific or commercial events). On the 12th October a fine was introduced to those who were not wearing masks in open or closed public spaces. Friday prayer is also suspended.
25.10.2020. It has been decided to open the land space between Libya and Tunisia with the condition of strict compliance by covid-19 measures.
24.10.20. The scientific commission for the fight against the coronavirus considers advising the health authorities compulsory general confinement for people over the age of 65. This also includes a ban on movement between governates.
20.10.2020. The Tunisian prime minister ordered all governors to impose a curfew in their regions.
Other
21.10.20. Tunisia is now banned from entering the European Union due to the infection rates
The Centre for Research, Studies, Documentation and Information on Women (Credif) has launched a campaign to prevent violence against women on social media. This is launched in partnership with the United Nations Population fund in Tunisia. In 2017, a similar study was conducted by Credif in support of women with the slogan ‘the stalker doesn’t walk with us’.
19.10.2020.Bus drivers of Transtu (a parastatal authority to manage public mass transit in the greater Tunis) have decided to strike following a failure to complete a protection programme (e.g. protection cabins) on buses. The process of acquiring equipment is time consuming, and 1 or 2 agents have died from coronavirus.
Links
http://www.webdo.tn/2020/10/24/tunisie-vers-un-confinement-general-pour-les-65-ans/#.X5bf09T7Rdg
Draft report 30 September to 16 October 2020
Tunisia, Tunis
Current cases (16.10.2020): 34.790
Current deaths (16.10.2020): 512
4.10.2020. The prime minister announces a ban on all gatherings of any kind as well as demonstrations across the country for two weeks. Normal classes in schools and universities will continue to take place. There is an obligation to wear masks in public places as well as closed spaces, public transport and public commercial places. The ministry of public service and governance introduces an administrative schedule to combat the spread of covid-19. -The first session: from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The second session from 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. This will be a working schedule for people working in central administrations, external services, local communities and administrative public enterprises. It does not include those working as law enforcement officers, soldiers and customs officers, public health, education, ,training and higher education in addition to those in the fields of public transport, sanitation, waste management and cleanliness. Classes are maintained with strict compliance with the sanitary protocol and intensified controls. In regions experiencing a strong increase in the number of cases, confinement will be observed, in addition to the curfew. These decisions will be taken at the local level, by the governors. Wearing a mask will be compulsory even outdoors and the state guarantees the availability of food to citizens. Friday prayer will be suspended in the most affected areas
8.10. A curfew was introduced in the Tunis region lasting for two weeks from 9 pm until 5 am on weekdays and 7 pm until 5 am on weekends. Markets will be closed, and Friday prayer suspended during this period of time. The prime minister welcomed giving people travel authorizations directly from employers. Air traffic will continue in the ordinary manner during the curfew period. People working at night are exempt from the curfew providing that they show documentation.
Other
16.10.2020. The World Bank lists Tunisia as one of the countries that will get World Bank support in terms of vaccines, tests and treatment.
12.10.2020. There are now 200.000 rapid tests that will be free.
7.10.2020. According to Hakim Tounsi, the government in Tunisia has not done enough to prevent the spread of covid-19, e.g. by supporting more on the ground. He argues that Tunisians living abroad were clumsily demonized but there was not enough focus was on how to prevent the spread in the country.
6.10. Transtu says they are trying to use more means of resources during rush hour, but this is difficult due to lack of resources, conductors and equipment. They suggest that the private industrial sector should help in the fight against covid-19. They also suggest having separate school and university transport. The various means of transport are being disinfected regularly.
The Tunisian embassy in Algeria decides to organise a new evacuation that includes Tunisian travellers not having to quarantine when returning to Tunisia.
3.10.2020. The Tunisian Director General of Health Tarek Ben Nasse said that the ban on gatherings and demonstrations as well as different working schedules is likely to reduce congestion on public transport.
30.9.2020. The customs union files a complaint against Tunis-Carthage airport for not sticking to health protocol.
Links
https://www.businessnews.com.tn/covid-19–des-mesures-qui-divisent,519,102612,3) :
Draft report 16-29 September
Tunisia, Tunis
Current cases in Tunisia (29.9.2020): 17.405
Current deaths in Tunisia (29.9.2020: 246
Government initiatives:
28.9.2020. The ministry of public health released the following measures on the 28th September. It is required to wear masks on public transport as well as private transport. There is a ban on chicha smoking and an obligation to use single use containers. It is banned to sit down in restaurants. Theatres and ballrooms are limited to a capacity of 30%. All places must be ventilated. Large scale gatherings are banned for cultural, political, sporting and scientific purposes. Health protocols will be strengthened at workplaces. They are increasing testing, providing more hospital beds as well as strengthening preventive measures. Certain hotspots might be closed. Since the 26 August, all travellers must present a negative PCR test conducted within less than 72 hours before boarding and not exceeding 120 hours on arrival. Children are exempt from this.
27.9.2020. France was included in the red list but without having to apply the measures that other countries in the ‘red zone’ must follow. On paper France is no longer orange, but remains part of the orange zone due to being a ‘neighbouring country’
26.7.2020. 20 delegates are classified as hotspots, where the incident rate is higher than 250 for 100.000 inhabitants. These areas will have a ban on travel in these areas and there will be an obligation to wear masks when in open spaces. There will be disinfection campaigns and a possible curfew at night.
25.9.2020. The ministry of health publishes a new list with the classification of countries according to their risk of covid-19. The green list includes countries that have had a slowdown of the decease. Passengers are recommended to quarantine, but it is not a requirement. They must present a negative PGR test conducting within 72 hours. Some of these countries include: China, Australia, Liechtenstein, Cyprus , Ivory Coast, Liberia, Malaysia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Seychelles, Singapore and Thailand. Passengers travelling from so-called ‘orange list’ countries must present a covid-19 test carried out within 72 hours and not exceeding 120 hours on arrival. A 7-day quarantine period is mandatory for these travellers, and the travellers can leave their isolation period if a second covid-19 test is negative. If they have symptoms, they have to quarantine. Some of these countries include: South Africa, Germany, Bulgaria, Canada, Cuba, Estonia, Finland, Italy, Japan, Greece, Poland, Senegal, Sweden, Norway, and Venezuela. Only Tunisian nationals/residents of Tunisia can travel from so-called ‘red zone countries’ into Tunisia. They must present a negative test (the same as the above) and there is a mandatory isolation period chosen by a committee – the costs of the isolation place will be at the expense of the traveller. These countries include: the United States, Brazil, Mexico, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Spain, Hungary, Ireland, the Netherlands, Portugal, the United Kingdom, Russia, Switzerland, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the Emirates, Morocco and Qatar. On the 24 September Algeria, Libya, France, Luxembourg, Malta and Italy were added to the so-called ‘special list’ (see above in the case of France 27.9.2020).
17.9.2020. 24 governates in Tunisia are now classified in the ‘red zone’ with 10 cases or more per 100.000 inhabitants.
The minister of transport and logistics Moez Chakchouk said that is key priority to reform the transport sector through digitalisation. He mentioned that the company Transtu has a debt of 1200 million dinars, and recommended a clear action plan with the Tunisian General Labour Union to support the enterprise.
21.9.2020. The head of government, Hichem Mechichi, ruled out general national confinement. He ordered that there should be increased security campaigns aimed at wearing protective masks in public spaces, public transport, schools and universities as well as service areas.
Other
28.9.2020. Tunisair express resumes flights to Tezour and will operate on a two-weekly frequency on Thursdays and Sundays. Passengers always have to wear masks.
25.7.2020. Avans Tunisie (a microfinance organisation) launches a (post) covid support programme that supports Tunisian entrepreneurs and farmers with a focus on economic recovery.
In an article in Le360Afrique.com Moussa Diop argues that it is the opening of the borders in Tunisia that has caused a surge in cases. Since the opening of the border the cases has multiplied by 10.
Monaco has signed a funding agreement with the United Nations Industrial development organisation in support of Tunisian women through inclusive and sustainable industrial development. For a period of four years they will promote the development of micro, small and medium enterprises led by women with the aim of creating more business/employment opportunities for women.
20.9.2020. In an article in Lapresse, Mohamed Salem Kechiche, emphasises that there are plenty of people who do not respect the health protocols, e.g. the wearing masks. He only observed yellow markers intended for physical distancing at the counter in the metro, and could not spot any signs to prevent covid19. Mohammed Salem Kechiche suggests video surveillance at the station level.
In another article in Lapresse (20.9) Imen Haouari, argues that there should have been more awareness campaigns at bus and metro stations concerning the risks of covid19 at the start of the school year.
Links
http://www.webdo.tn/2020/09/28/tunisie-liste-des-nouvelles-mesures-anti-covid-19/#.X3MA3Gj0nhc
http://www.webdo.tn/2020/09/21/hichem-mechichi-pas-de-retour-au-confinement-general/#.X3M3JWj0nhc
Draft report 1 September to 15 September 2020
Tunisia
Current cases 15.9.2020 in Tunisia: 7382
Current deaths 15.9.2020 in Tunisia: 117
Government initiatives
15.9.2020. The Tunisian national railway company (SNCFT) have called upon the police to enforce the wearing of masks. The health authorities have called upon all travellers to wear masks. There is now an obligation to wear masks in closed public spaces (airports, train stations, ports, hospitals and private clinics
9.9.2020. The ministry of transport has said that public transport companies shouldSterilize land transport stations and means of transport frequently.
Require drivers and controllers to wear masks, and also provide these masks
Carry out awareness campaigns through the media and on physical posters at stations and on public transport
Ensure that passengers wear masks both at the stations, and during the journey.
Strengthen monitoring to monitor the extent of commitment to wear masks when traveling
8.9.2020. Travellers entering into Tunisia have to present a negative PCR test that does not exceed 120 hours.
4.9.2020. The date for the school year to start is the 15th September regardless of the epidemiological situation, although respecting health guidelines.
3.9.2020. 19 governates have been labelled as red in Tunisia due to the spread of coronavirus, exceeding 10 contaminations per 100.000.
Other
14.9.2020. The transport company Transtu have agreed to postpone their strike that was meant to take place on the 14-15 September 2020. It is now postponed to the 9/20 November 2020.
10.9.2020: The taxi start up Intigo is heading internationally. More than 30% of their customers are girls and women, some of whom are over 60 years old. During the period of confinement the company delivered food from supermarkets to their customers (intishop). In July 2020 young people can take ownership of their own scooters through microfinance institutions. Intigo is also providing student transport and has partnered with a car rental company.
10.9.2020. The train lines have been affected due to bad weather (Tunis – Djebel Djelloud, Tunis – Gaâfour and Tunis – Bizerte line)
The agency for the Promotion of Industry and Innovation (Apii) and the Arab Institute of Business Leaders (IACE) have launched a survey that aims to explore the readiness of companies for the second wave of the coronavirus pandemic.
Despite the relative success in halting covid-19, Tunisia is now mired in an economic crisis with an unemployment rate at 18 percent, and in need of assistance from the international monetary fund.
4.9. 2020. A support program which is part of OCO global has been launched in collaboration with TheNextWomenTunisie, with the support of CEPEX and the Tunisian-British Chamber of Commerce (TBCC). The aim is to support female entrepreneurs in building business capacities.
Links
http://www.webdo.tn/2020/09/15/la-sncft-fait-appel-a-la-police-pour-imposer-le-port-des-masques/
http://www.webdo.tn/2020/09/03/tunisie-coronavirus-les-19-gouvernorats-classes-en-rouge/
http://www.webdo.tn/2020/09/14/prevue-demain-la-greve-de-la-transtu-reportee-a-novembre/
Tunisia, Tunis
Current cases 1.9.2020: 3,803
Current deaths 1.9.2020: 77
Government initiatives
19.8.2020 Germany moves to the amber list instead of the green list. The amber list includes more than 50 countries including San Marino, Vietnam, South Korea, Malaysia, Mongolia and Lithuania. This comes after the health minister announced on the 19th that they will not allow any passenger to enter the country without presenting a negative test.
24.8.2020. The wearing of masks is now compulsory in the transport sector, shopping centres and leisure areas. This includes all public/private health institutions, public/private schools as well as kindergartens.
Other:
25.8.2020. Transtu (Tunis Transport company) calls on its customers to wear masks as soon as they enter the station, and before boarding the means of transport.
24.8.2020. A train couch has been on fire [train connecting Tunis to Sfax]. There has been no loss of life but it is being investigated as a criminal act.
Between the 29 May and 3 June the African Development Bank have approved loans for Tunisia of 530.2 million euros. One of these loans 146.847 million was denominated as a covid support program for employment and social inclusion.
The Director-General of the National Observatory of New and Emerging Diseases Nissaf Ben Alay said that asymptomatic carriers will be permitted to self-isolate provided that they comply with a number of rules, including social distancing.
22.8.2020. The national interurban company (SNTRI) decided to make it compulsory to wear masks on stations and busses. They made an awareness campaign on the 22 August to remind people of complying with this and social distancing.
22.8.2020.Compagnie Tunisienne de Navigation announced that passengers must have had a covid test within less than 120 hours when arriving on Tunisian territory.
19.8.2020. Transtu employees announced a strike 15-16 September
17.8.2020. The education minister declares that the start of the school year will be on the 15 September
Aswat Nissa (a nongovernmental organisation focusing on women’s rights) calls on the president to uphold equality amongst its citizens, safeguard and bolster women’s rights and take measures to eliminate violence against women (article 21 and 46 of the constitution)
18.8.2020 The minister of tourism in Tunisia says in a statement that Tunisia must keep its borders open.
Links
Draft report 1-17 August.Tunisia, Tunis.
Current cases (17.8.2020): 2107
Current deaths (17.8.2020): 54
Government interventions
17.8.2020. The president in Tunisia has promulgated a law with provisions in the public sector for higher education graduates who have been unemployed for 10 years. People aged 35 but not unemployed for this period of time will also be considered.
15.8.2020. The town of Hamma in Gabes (South Tunisia) was sealed off after discovering a COVID 19 cluster due apparently to foreign visits to a local manufacturer. A military hospital was deployed at the town. Our in country team reports that many other smaller clusters were discovered in Tunisia (Kairouan, Mahdia, Sousse) Situation seems still under control by the Ministry of Health.
13.8.2020. The ministry of Transport celebrated Tunisia Women’s day .
On the National Women’s Day, President Kais Saied visited a marginalised region in the governorate of Jendouba to learn about the concerns of women agricultural workers and their everyday difficulties, such as the dangers of transport. The president emphasised the need to strengthen the economic and social rights of women in rural and urban areas.
12.8.2020: The Ministry of health in Tunisia has reviewed the pandemic in relation to different countries and have published a new classification system. This system is based on risk and propagation speed for each country together with other indicators by WHO and other organisations. The main countries that have been removed from a green list to an orange list include: France, Austria, Monaco, Denmark, Netherlands, United Kingdom, Djibouti, Chad, Cuba, Malta and Luxembourg. Travellers from these countries will have to go through self-confinement and a present a negative covid19 test conducted within 72 hours. More restrictions are observed in closed spaces (airports and public transport). Wearing a mask is now a must. The director of the National Observatory for new and emerging diseases (Nissaf Ben Alalay) said that Tunisia is going through a second wave of covid 19 since the opening of borders. The goal, he says, is to conduct 600 daily tests.
10.8.2020: 2500 agents at Tunis Carthage airport have been tested negative for covid-19. All citizens are encouraged to respect social distancing, wearing a mask and hand sanitization. According to Nissaf Ben Alalaya, mentioned above, screening tests will soon become compulsory for all travellers arriving in Tunisia, including countries on the green list.
6.8.2020. The ministerial council approved the decision to make mask wearing compulsory.
5.8.2020.The wearing of masks is mandatory in airports and a ministerial council will decide later what sanctions will follow if this is not complied to. It is not allowed to enter the airport as a travel companion.
3.8.2020. The ministry of national defence sets up a military health medical team Tunis-Carthage airport to contribute to detect covid-19 cases.
Nisaf Ben Alaya, mentioned above, said that more than 3,000 tests will be carried out with Tunis-Carthage staff. An average of 500 tests will be carried out daily.
Other:
16.8.2020: The Tunisian general labour union (UGTT) endorses a woman’s representative in the next cabinet. It will push for competence to be a key criterion to hold ministerial portfolios
15.8.2020: The unemployment rate has increased significantly in Q2 2020. It has increased by 15.2. % for men and 25 % for women.74.2. thousand people were unemployed in Q2 2020 despite wanting to work. They were not counted as unemployed due to not looking for work due to covid19 but if the group is added the unemployment rate would increase by 1.4% for men and 19.4% for women. Youth unemployment is 36% for men and 37.3% for women.
Links
http://www.webdo.tn/2020/08/12/entree-en-tunisie-coronavirus-la-classification-des-pays-mise-a-jour/
http://www.webdo.tn/2020/08/02/tunisie-coronavirus-3000-agents-de-tunis-carthage-seront-depistes/
Draft report 18.7.2020-31.7.2020
Current cases in Tunisia [31.7.2020]: 1514
Current deaths in Tunisia [31.7.2020]: 50
Tunis
30.7.2020: Belgium, Spain, Switzerland and China have been removed from Tunisia’s green list and are now categorised as orange. Since the 27 July travellers from countries classified as green did not have to provide a negative covid-19 test are not placed in quarantine.
27.7.2020. The Tunisian government announced that all members of the same family coming from countries not classified as green or orange should be placed in mandatory isolation (including children under 12) for at least 3 days until the ministry of health carry out the required test
28.7.2020 Covid-19 cases are on the rise in Tunis Carthage airport. 6 airport officials have died so far. 6 medical teams will carry out screening of all airport staff. The director general of the national observatory for new and emerging diseases says that the airport closing has not been mentioned. The 7 infected agents at the airport have been placed in a containment centre to monitor their health.
Other
20.7.2020 Women are protesting in south Tunisia because they are furious with the government and oil companies for failing to follow through with promised jobs. Several protest movements have emerged since June due to covid-19.
25.7.2020. In an article in La Presse it is highlighted that people in Tunisia to a large extent are not following social distancing measures, and that there might expect a second wave. People who are supposed to be in confinement are sometimes fleeing accommodation centres.
Links:
Draft report 4.7.2020-17.7.2020
Tunisia
Current cases 17.7.2020: 1327
Current deaths 17.7.2020: 50
14.7.2020. The Tunisian ministry of transport calls Corsica Linea to suspend crossings to Tunisia until health procedures (quarantine) have been followed and the ship has been disinfected. The captain had been tested positive but had not been in touch with the passengers.
9.7.2020. A study by UN women reports that women have been more vulnerable during covid-19, particularly those working in the agricultural sector or unemployed women. The UN women launched a survey across North Africa. In Tunisia there were 1508 respondents. A third of the respondents reported that they had suffered domestic violence. Belhaj, who is part of the UN women, emphasised that Tunisia one of the few countries that publish the number of COVID-19 cases by gender (available regarding confirmed cases and deaths). Belhaj also said that there is an absence of data regarding women’s access to care structures, preventive measures and places of protection.
2 July 2020. Thirty women have started to learn how to cycle in the Japanese garden in Tunis and are keen to get about and have more autonomy. The bikes school is launched by Vélorution Tunisie that has trained 700 women in two years. During covid-19 there has been an increased interest in cycling. The women are between 15 and 70. The organisation has got a spike of attention during the pandemic but the riders emphasise that there are not enough cycling facilities in the city as things get back to normal.
Draft report 23.6.2020-3.7.2020
Tunisia
Current cases (3.7.2020): 1178
Current deaths (3.7.2020): 50
Government implementations:
29.6.2020. The minister has decided to grant interest free loans up to 6000 Euros to enable Tunisians living abroad (in Europe) to buy plane tickets with Tunisair and CTN.
26.6.2020. Tunisia opened its sea, land and air borders to selected tourists on the 27 June. The government has said that it will allow travel between provinces. A color-coded system has been implemented to show which countries can enter and the restrictions travellers from these countries might face. Green list countries make up countries with low prevalence of the virus. Travellers from orange list countries need to fill in a form and present a negative PCR test performed no later than 72 hours before departure. If a country is not on the green /orange list travellers cannot enter.
29.6.2020: Ministers responsible for transport and tourism visited Tunis/Carthage airport and noted some deficiencies regarding luggage handling which will require urgent decision making.
Other
27. 6.2020. Tunisair outlines the conditions for getting on a plane. The wearing of a mask is compulsory (boarding, on the flight and disembarking), passengers need to respect a 1-meter rule at the counter and check-in gate, and plexiglass is installed as much as possible. Crew members and airport personnel also must wear masks.
24.6.2020: In an interview, the minister for women, family and seniors in Tunisia, Ms Asma Shiri, says that rural women faced issues before covid in regard to transport, but now they are even more vulnerable. The government is setting up loans of 1000 dinars that can be repaid over 2 years and 2 months without interest. She also says that the government is setting up measures that enables unemployment compensation of 200 dinars for workers who have been negatively affected by covid.
Links
Draft report 6.6.2020-23.6.2020
Tunisia
Current cases (23.6.2020): 1159
Deaths: (23.6.2020): 50
Government initiatives
19.6.2020. In Tunisia the curfew is lifted, and the government has lifted almost all restrictions due to the low number of cases. Travel within the country is allowed, and restaurants are open.
16.6.2020. The Tunisian union of agriculture and fisheries calls for the authorities to protect rural women from transport insecurities. This followed the traffic accident (mentioned below) with rural agricultural workers.
15.6.2020. The Intercity means of transport is to operate at full capacity (not 50%) according to the ministry of transport.
13.6.2020: The Tunisian government are allowing repatriation flights. Tourists who will come to Tunisia will have to present a coronavirus test carried out in their residence (72 hours before) after the borders will open on the 27 June. They must fill in a health form before leaving their departure airport. They will be subject to temperature measurements. Tunisians coming from abroad will have to self-isolate for 14 days.
10.6.2020: The Tunisian authorities announced that:
– Air, land and sea borders will open from 27.6.2020
– The Compulsory quarantine for travellers from abroad (7 days in a dedicated structure such as a hotel establishment, followed by 7 days at home);
– The lifting of the curfew
– the wearing a mandatory mask in all public places;
– The resumption of public transport;
– The reopening of administrative services welcoming the public to the usual hours;
– The authorization of intercity travel and travel between regions;
– The reopening of restaurants and cafes;
– Maintaining a ban on rallies and postponing all demonstrations.
Other
16.6.2020. A man died and 14 female agricultural workers were injured in a traffic accident between Kairouan and Wasatiya. One truck was loaded with sheep the other with farm workers.
Links
http://www.rtci.tn/les-moyens-transport-interurbains-autorises-travailler-pleine-capacite/
Draft report 23.5.2020-5.6.2020
Confirmed cases (5.6.2020): 1,087
Confirmed deaths: (5.6.2020): 49
Government initiatives:
1.6.2020 COVID 19 restrictions related Announcement: End of guided health confinement
4.6. 2020: The authorities decided lifting the inter governorates (counties) transport ban.
3.6.2020: Tunisia borders will re-open as of 27.6.2020 (Land, air and sea). The evacuation of Tunisians stuck abroad will continue as of 4 June, with a mandatory 7 days quarantine. They will be subject to compulsory health isolation in a dedicated hotel for 7 days (at their expense) and an additional seven days at home with rigorous health monitoring.
Other
Transtu:
28. 5.2020: Lines re enforcement to accommodate school pupils returning to schools as of 28th May and extending students subscriptions till end July from end June
May announcement: tnd 1.2 b losses in 2018.
Changes in itinerary going through Bardo
Links
Draft report 9.5.2020-22.5.2020
Tunis
Current cases (22.5.2020): 1046
Current deaths (22.5.2020): 47
Government initiatives
18.5.2020: The ministry of Transport announced new measures in favour of non-scheduled public transport, car renting and the driving school sector. They will allow the extension of the deadline for the credits grants, and also maintain the same rate of VAT for 6 months (maximum 300 dinars for car insurance costs). The ministry has decided to open a financing line worth 5 million dinar with the Tunisian Solidarity Bank. This will allow people working in the sectors mentioned above to benefit from loans of maximum 1000 dinars and a fixed interest rate of 5 %. The repayment of the loan will have to be paid back over approximately 2 years.
11.5.2020. Transtu prohibits passengers to travel without a travel authorisation.
6.5. 2020 The Tunisian Union of Social Solidarity has made 200,000 protective masks available to passengers during the lockdown period, but only for passengers with travel authorisation.
Other
4.5.2020: The number of passengers on the first day (4.5.2020) when the lockdown was eased, the bus and the metro were very busy (a larger number than estimated by Transtu). 372,000 had used public transport. It is only possible to get a ticket with a travel authorisation.
Draft report 25.4.2020-8.5.2020
Tunisia
8.5.2020. Cases 1026. 44 deaths.
Government measures
4.5.2020. The food and construction sector can resume operations, and half of government employees will be able to return to work. Public transport will partially resume but with some restrictions. On the 11 May clothing shops and malls will be permitted to open. Another relaxation of measures will be planned on the 14 June but will depend on the spread of the virus. On the 28 May high school students in their final year will be able to resume classes. Others will return to school in September. Students within the field of medicine will return to university on the 11 May. There is currently a national curfew from 8 pm to 6 am during Ramadan starting the 24 April. People can only leave their houses during curfew for essential services (food and medicine). Travel between cities is prohibited. International flights are suspended, and people entering Tunisia have to self-quarantine for two weeks.
29.4.2020. The government announced they will start relaxing its coronavirus lockdown next week, reopening parts of the food and construction sectors and allowing half of government employees to return to work.
Transport associations/other
4.5.2020 Transtu is implementing the following measures:
-A reduction of the maximum number of passengers on vehicles to 50% of their capacities (maximum 40 people for regular buses, 60 people or double buses, 120 people for metro and train)
-Passengers need to show their permission for travel before boarding
-All staff and passengers must wear masks
-Regular disinfection of all vehicles is required.
The metro is trying to keep physical distance between passengers, and checking on masks. Our in-country team reports that collective taxis are also starting to operate, and it appears that they do not ask passengers for travel permissions.
3.5.2020. People are going back to work in Tunis. In an article (Nesma) the contributors speculate what the reopening will mean for public transport, e.g. in terms of electric bikes, scooters, and the new company Intigo.
Links
(Source: https://www.facebook.com/Transtu.tn/photos/a.528330887202560/2996997013669256/?type=3&theater)
Draft report 11.4.2020-24.4.2020
Tunisia
Current cases: 918
Current deaths: 38
24.4.2020
Government initiatives
24 April: A modification of curfew hours for Ramadan is taking place effective today in Tunisia (now from 20h00 till 06h00). An upcoming gradual lifting of confinement measures will be taking place starting 4 May.
22 April: The government has decided that all public transport should be free of charge in the confinement period (buses and metro-tram) in order to facilitate transport of health care workers and security workers in strategic fields such as food in order to better face COVID-19. Transport users should show authorizations prior to accessing buses and metros. The frequency of transport means has been reduced during the confinement period, although in some cases travel has increased due to authorization measures. The Transport Ministry held a meeting to discuss how to cooperate in the light of the COVID 19 crisis.
18 April: (personal communication with Tunis team member). Since the start of the confinement Tunisia Authorities put a web portal (http://www.autorisation.gov.tn/.in order to facilitate distribution of the authorizations to move outside during the confinement period. Authorized company representatives can get authorization for themselves and for their employees. Everyone can apply, not everyone can get it. Legitimate reasons: Work for health and any other supporting profession to health. Also security, food, agriculture, food distribution, public services including transport, energy.
The confinement period has been extended and the length will be announced later.
Gafsa Governorate: The regional authorities decided to limit the movement between the delegations of the governorate after the expansion of the number of people infected with “Corona”. Nouvelair: The center urbain nord agency are reopening providing new repatriation flights.
LINKS:
https://www.businessnews.com.tn/Tunisie—Prorogation-du-confinement,520,97634,3 (https://www.babnet.net/cadredetail-201996.asp
Draft report 1.4-10.4.2020
Cases 10.4.2020 645. 25 deaths
Government interventions
9.4.2020: Prime Minister Elias Al-Fakhakh took a number of additional measures to reduce the quarantine violations and further control the spread of the Corona virus.
Further organizing the process of attributing the permissions to move outside.
Adoption of financial penalties for citizens who do not respect quarantine.
Forbidding transportation and all transfers between governorates and isolating areas declared by the Ministry of Health as affected areas.
Friday, April 10 is an extraordinary holiday to limit the movement to the strict necessity.
The Prime Minister’s office called for the use of force and strictness in implementing the procedures and obligating everyone to implement the quarantine in order to curb the coronavirus spread.
Source:
Authorities are expected to issue a decree regulating financial penalties for breaching public quarantine. In this context, the official spokesperson of the government, Asma Al-Suhairi, confirmed in a statement to Shams FM radio that the penalties that will be adopted will be similar to traffic ones. A bill has been prepared to these penalties as a deterrent step in order to compel citizens to respect the ongoing quarantine. Source Nessmatv/ar
9.4. 2020
The Nessma website reported that the Tunisian Airlines will evacuate about 120 Tunisians from the airports of Ouagadougou in Burkina Faso and Niamey, Niger. The plane is expected to arrive at about eight o’clock this evening, Thursday, to Tunis-Carthage International Airport, passengers will be directed later to their compulsory quarantine state centers.
Source Nessmatv/ar
7.4. 2020. The Prime Ministry office banned inter-governate travel in Tunisia. Quarantine violators could face serious charges if they violate the government’s rules.
3.4.2020. A helpline has been set up to help women who are victims of domestic violence and assaults due to the lockdown.
2.4.2020. The president announced that Tunisia will extend a lockdown to contain the spread of the coronavirus by two weeks to April 19.
2.4.2020 The Transport Technical Agency announced the decision to extend the validity documents such as operating certificates for public transport buses, individual taxis and rural transport.
1.4.2020. Enova has manufactured robots that are put up in Tunisia to track people’s movement and ask people where they are going during the lockdown
Links:
http://www.pm.gov.tn/pm/actualites/actualite.php?lang=enu0026amp;id=12292
Draft report 1.3.2020-31.3.2020
Government approach
30.3. 2020. Confirmed cases in Tunisia: 312.
30.3.2020. Between 22-26.3.2020 people who were caught outside with a transportation mean (motorbike, car) saw their bikes confiscated or their car and driving licenses confiscated.
27.3. 2020. The police started confiscating cars from drivers who did not have a valid motive (buying essentials, buying medicine, or official authorization) to use them during the quarantine (source to be confirmed by team member).
27.3. 2020. 7 deaths, 1 recovery.
22. 3. 2020. Established a quarantine also called total General confinement for all citizens.
The government has closed borders for all commercial travel.
18.3.2020. The president declared that the army will patrol the streets and curfew will run from 6pm to 6am local time.
16.3.2020: The Minister of Transport and Logistics announced that his department is ready to suspend public transport and interurban transport if this will be needed. Anyone who is not forced to use public transportation should avoid it instantly.
13.3. 2020: The Prime Minister has banned gatherings and markets. State employees should work 5 hours, at different shifts. All flights to Italy will be suspended and ordered mandatory self-isolation of 14 days for all those arriving in the country. All classes in all kindergartens and day nurseries as well as public and private schools and universities are closed, including mosques.
11.3. 2020. Passengers will be provided with soap/sanitizers at stations and on transport, and agents will be given necessary work supplies, e.g gloves. The government is ensuring the cleanliness of transportation by land, sea and air, and sterilization, if necessary. There are teams at the main transport stations to investigate suspected cases (source team member to be confirmed)
10.3.2020. The Office for Merchant Marine and Ports (OMMP-under the ministry of public works) announced in a statement on Tuesday that Tunisian ports will be closed to ships from Italy, starting 11.3- 4.4. 2020.
Other/transport associations
30.3. Individuals in parts of the city have protested in front of the headquarters in one of the poorer neighbourhoods of Tunis during the lockdown. They are asking for permission to carry on with their daily activities to be able to feed their families.
21.3. 2020. The Tunisian union of individual taxis has allowed doctors, army forces, national security agents and some special cases to move for free. They will be allowed to run during the curfew from 6 pm to 6 am.
19.3.2020. The team informs us that there are massive queues (their own observations) of people waiting for busses due the curfew. One team member observed that there is a lot of tension, since people cannot afford to stay at home and not work. Our in-country team has informed us that pensions are being distributed directly to the elderly and their homes [instead of via post offices]. People need to travel more to shop due to shortages of food. Buses from Monastir have stopped coming in and out to limit people commuting.
16.3. 2020. Our in-country team members have stopped face-to-face fieldwork.
14.3. 2020. Syndicat National des Journalistes Tunisiens: Will provide transportation for employees, and tolerate work from home in some cases. The organisation recommends citizens to avoid crowds, respect the recommendations of the ministry of health, avoid infected people and comply with self-isolation.
12.3. 2020. Transtu has set up temperature equipment at the main stations of the capital (Le Passage, Barcelona Square, TGM) to detect possible cases of coronavirus, and are cleaning buses and wagons.
11.3. 2020. The municipality of Tunis lead a campaign to disinfect stations of public transport Le Passage, Place Barcelona and the TGM. Transtu is content with running awareness campaigns.
Useful weblinks for more info:
http://kapitalis.com/tunisie/2020/03/12/coronavirus-haro-sur-le-transport-public-en-tunisie/
http://french.xinhuanet.com/afrique/2020-03/11/c_138864007.htm
http://www.rtci.tn/transport-regulier-personnes-en-tunisie-se-retrouve-au-coeur-du-debat/
Women, transport and employment in Africa 