USAID's housing and urban programs in Tunisia, 1966-1997

USAID, within the context of a larger bilateral assistance program, contributed significantly to this achievement. This report documents this success story (1966-1997). The Tunisian-American relationship was based upon mutual respect, and the knowledge that the Regional Housing and Urban Development Office (RHUDO) was committed to remaining in Tunisia on a long-term basis; RHUDO was in the country 20 years, allowing it to gain an intimate understanding of Tunisian institutions and staff members, offer relevant TA, and increase the sustainability thereof. The long-term approach proved essential in Tunisia because changes came slowly and new policies needed nurturing. The use of pilot projects, studies, and workshops was also key to the success of the approach. Further, the long-term tripartite relationship between Tunisia, USAID, and the World Bank was unique in the world of development assistance; its replication would be a considerable victory for development assistance. While RHUDO sometimes felt that Tunisia could have accomplished even more it had not been so cautious, it remained in its proper role and continued to support the Tunisian efforts. This paid off; problems that had seemed insurmountable became, in the end, manageable. In sum, the relationship was an enviable one. Joint Tunisian-American programs contributed to many outstanding achievements. Tunisia made remarkable progress in meeting housing needs of more than one million Tunisians with the assistance of more than $165 million from USAID over a 30-year period. Tunisians are dramatically better housed today than before; the percentage of shanty housing dropped from over 25% to less than 3% in 20 years. The Tunisian private sector now provides virtually all houses, some 55,000 annually over the last 10 years. Low-income households in urban areas have significantly better living conditions than they did 20 years ago, thanks to upgrading efforts pioneered by USAID in Mellassine. Water, electricity, and sewer services are now widespread. Garbage collection is improving, thanks to USAID programs to encourage the participation of the private sector. Local authorities are stronger and participate more effectively in development efforts.