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Malika Bendouda Orders UNESCO Listing for Hippo Regius and Launches the “Augustinian Itineraries” Project

ANNABA – The Minister of Culture and Arts, Malika Bendouda, conducted a working and inspection visit to the province of Annaba this weekend, focusing on major archaeological sites, most notably the prestigious Hippo Regius site and museum.

This visit is part of the ongoing preparations for the official visit of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV to the region. During her tour, Ms. Bendouda oversaw the reopening of the Hippo Museum to the public following the completion of extensive refurbishment and spatial study works.

Archaeological Treasures The Minister emphasized the historical and universal significance of the artifacts housed within the museum, including the exceptional “Gorgone” mask and the renowned “Statue of Victory,” both considered rare masterpieces of world heritage. In a strategic move to enhance the international standing of Algeria’s national heritage, Ms. Bendouda issued immediate instructions to prepare a comprehensive technical dossier to nominate the Hippo Regius archaeological site for the UNESCO World Heritage List, as a centerpiece of the famous “Augustinian Itineraries.”

A Spiritual and Cultural Hub The Minister also called for the establishment of an interpretation center dedicated to the legacy of Saint Augustine within the museum. This center aims to highlight the civil and spiritual heritage of the philosopher-saint, making the site an essential reference point in the region.

The visit also included an inspection of the Basilica of Saint Augustine, which overlooks the hills of Hippo. Ms. Bendouda praised the deep symbolism of this landmark, which harmoniously blends Roman, Byzantine, and Moorish architectural influences. She stressed the vital importance of preserving these archaeological treasures while upgrading reception facilities for visitors and international delegations, ensuring they reflect Algeria’s profound cultural and civilizational richness.

ALGIERS – The eyes of the world are turning toward Algeria, which is set to host a historic visit of unprecedented significance.

Amidst a tense regional and international climate, Pope Leo XIV will embark on a landmark visit to Algeria from April 13 to 15, 2026. This marks the first-ever papal visit to the country, carrying a profound message of peace and interfaith brotherhood, while reflecting Algeria’s status as a global crossroads for religious and cultural dialogue.

Following in the footsteps of the son of Algeria, Saint Augustine, the nation is preparing to welcome the Sovereign Pontiff under the symbolic theme “Peace Be Upon You” (Salam Alaykum).

The Pope will begin his visit in the capital, Algiers, where he will receive an official ceremonial reception befitting an honored guest of the State. He is scheduled to hold high-level talks with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune at the El Mouradia Presidential Palace. The itinerary also includes visits to the Martyrs’ Memorial (Maqam El Chahid) and the Great Mosque of Algiers (Djamaa El Djazaïr), before meeting members of the Catholic community at the Basilica of Our Lady of Africa.

On the second day, the Pontiff will travel to the eastern city of Annaba. There, he will visit the archaeological site of Hippo, ancient home of Saint Augustine, and will preside over a mass at the Basilica dedicated to the Saint.

ALGIERS (APS) – The Air Algérie Group and the Algiers Airport Services and Infrastructure Management Company (SGSIA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish a modern air cargo hub. This project aims to enhance logistical efficiency and keep pace with the ongoing economic developments in the country.

The agreement was signed by Hamza Benhamouda, CEO of Air Algérie, and Mokhtar Said Mediouni, CEO of SGSIA, in the presence of the CEO of Sonatrach, the Director General of Customs, the Director General of the Algerian Investment Promotion Agency (AAPI), and the President of the National Union of Public Contractors (UNEP).

Managed by Air Algérie Cargo, the “Algiers Cargo” project will be located in the southeastern zone of the airport. The works include the rehabilitation of Terminal 3, converting the 10,530 m² building—with a storage capacity of 25,500 m³—into a centralized operations hub, complete with a commercial agency and administrative offices.

Infrastructure and Timeline The hub, scheduled for completion within 12 months, will feature specialized zones for import/export processing, modern warehouses, cold rooms for sensitive and pharmaceutical products, rapid sorting areas, and dedicated spaces for customs and inspection. Additionally, the project includes a future expansion of 5,000 m² (15,000 m³ storage capacity) to be completed within 24 months, alongside a modern three-story administrative building.

Economic Integration and Trade Expansion During the ceremony, Mr. Benhamouda emphasized that this project aligns with national efforts to diversify the economy and promote non-hydrocarbon exports. He highlighted its role in activating economic integration mechanisms, such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), to create new trade opportunities.

“Developing the air cargo hub represents a qualitative shift in managing this activity by combining infrastructure investment with modern management methods and integrated digital systems,” Benhamouda stated. The project follows a self-financing model with a 30-year operating contract, ensuring strategic sustainability.

Targeting International Markets The hub aims to accelerate operations and significantly increase capacity. Projections indicate that cargo volume will rise from approximately 19,000 tons in 2023 to over 65,000 tons by 2029.

Data shows a surge in air cargo activity:

• 2023: 5.26% growth.
• 2024: A “qualitative leap” of 31%.
• 2025: Sustained growth momentum exceeding 25%.
• 2026: Upward trend expected to continue, reflecting rising demand and confidence in national cargo capabilities.

To support this growth, Air Algérie is converting five aircraft for cargo use, bringing its total freighter fleet to six. This expansion targets promising markets in Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America.

Strategic Partnerships Mr. Benhamouda also revealed that a strategic partnership agreement between Air Algérie Cargo and Ethiopian Airlines will be signed “soon” to optimize network utilization across the continent.

For his part, Mr. Mediouni highlighted that the hub adheres to the highest international standards, integrating advanced digital technologies. Meanwhile, Abdelkader Salmi, Director General of Air Algérie Cargo, stated that the center will transform Algiers Airport into a “regional logistical platform” capable of attracting global trade flows, particularly towards African markets such as Nouakchott, Dakar, and N’Djamena.