The Regional Forum on Renewable Energy in Rural Areas

Mr. Fathi Hanchi, General Director of the National Agency for Energy Management, presided this Wednesday, October 16, 2024, in Tunis, over the opening of the Multilateral Regional Forum on Expanding Investments in Small-Scale Renewable Energy in Rural Areas: A Comprehensive Multisectoral Approach.

During his speech, Mr. Fathi Hanchi emphasized the importance of the "REGEND" initiative, highlighting the significant support it provides, particularly to rural women. He pointed out that this initiative contributes to improving livelihoods through the use of small-scale renewable energy in agricultural activities and development projects. The initiative also helps create new job opportunities, especially for rural women.

The General Director of the National Agency for Energy Management stated that the Agency will continue to provide the necessary technical support, in collaboration with various partners, and will work on developing a dedicated financing mechanism to support this category.

This two-day forum is part of the "REGEND" initiative and is organized by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) in partnership with the National Agency for Energy Management and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency. It aims to showcase policies and financial incentives that help remove barriers and increase investment in renewable energy. It is worth noting that this initiative is currently being implemented in Tunisia, Lebanon, and Jordan, and is being expanded to include Algeria and Mauritania.