Tunisia’s economy was strained by political instability beginning in 2011, leaving fifteen percent of the workforce unemployed. In some areas of rural and western Tunisia, up to three-quarters of the population struggles to afford food. Yet despite its own challenges, Tunisia opened its borders in 2011 to Libyan refugees—more than 1 million at the height of the conflict, a significant strain on the country’s resources.
With all this considered, one thing remains clear: The people of Tunisia are resilient and, with the support of donors like you, families in need there can access opportunities to break the chains of poverty and move toward success.
Islamic Relief USA has been serving people in need in Tunisia for many years. From repairing infrastructure in Libyan refugee camps to caring for orphans, IRUSA donors answered the call for help coming out of Tunisia time and again. Today, our eye is on development, with projects that can transform lives and improve education by making clean water accessible in remote places.
Here’s just a sampling of recent efforts for families in need across Tunisia:
As much as we’ve been able to accomplish, there is still so much more to do. If we work together—with YOU—we can make the vision of a better Tunisia a reality for so many more of our sisters and brothers in need.
$1,000 can help build good water and sanitation systems for schools
$250 can support integrated programming that helps create sustainable livelihoods
$100 can provide a vital food package to a family suffering from starvation
Ezzeddine didn’t believe that Islamic Relief would really help rebuild his greenhouse after it was destroyed in a cyclone in 2014. The cyclone dealt a terrible blow to an area where farmers were barely scraping by, even in a good year.
He had heard promises before from others, and never himself saw anything materialize. Then he saw Islamic Relief’s work begin, and he decided to take a chance and be a part.
Ezzeddine was one of 77 farmers who regained their livelihood through the first phase of this project, which restored 12 greenhouses and provided seeds, livestock and vocational training. A second phase that wrapped up this year has now repaired 66 more greenhouses, restoring the ability to feed and support to 66 families.
This project has reduced poverty for these families in a tangible way, helping them recover from disaster more quickly than they imagined.
“With Islamic Relief, I converted my defeat into victory,” Ezzeddine said.
Download Middle East Donor Report (updated: May 2020)