Swimming Pool in Each Neighbourhood | GiveBack to Algeria (GBTA)

Swimming Pool in Each Neighbourhood | GiveBack to Algeria (GBTA)

Introduction

The Swimming Pool in Each Neighbourhood project aims to make swimming safe, affordable and accessible by building a network of local swimming facilities embedded in communities. Beyond leisure, it strengthens public health, boosts social cohesion, creates jobs, and builds a clear pathway for young talent across Algeria’s 69 wilayas.

Funding allocation (initial planning estimates)

  • Share of project funding: 12.5%

  • Total allocation: €413,437,500

  • Estimated number of projects: 270 swimming pools

  • Average cost per project: €1,531,250

Note: These figures are presented on the project page as a planning framework and are refined through technical studies, land constraints, pool type and operating requirements.

Why this matters

  1. Health and wellbeing: Swimming is a full-body, low-impact activity that improves cardiovascular fitness, strength and flexibility, suitable for all ages.

  2. Water safety: Teaching children and young people to swim reduces risk and supports prevention.

  3. Fair access: Neighbourhood facilities remove transport barriers and make participation realistic for families.

  4. Talent development: Local pools with structured coaching help identify and develop future athletes.

  5. Community hubs: Pools can host programmes and local competitions that strengthen belonging and healthy habits.

Building on Algeria’s coastal advantage

With an extensive Mediterranean coastline, Algeria has a natural foundation for a strong swimming culture. The project turns that potential into year-round practice by bringing facilities closer to people’s daily lives.

What we build: a flexible neighbourhood model

Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, the project supports adaptable formats:

  • Learn-to-swim pools for children with safe depths

  • Training-focused pools where demand supports structured coaching

  • Family sessions with clear safety rules and supervision

  • Covered options where climate and seasonality require it

Core features at each site:

  • Clean changing areas, lockers, controlled entry, first aid capability, clear signage

  • Qualified lifeguards and coaches, structured lesson programmes

  • Accessibility provisions for disabled users

Operations and governance under the GBTA model

  • Professional delivery: Implemented and operated through the executive arm (Al Amana Development) under clear standards.

  • Asset lock and reinvestment: Any operational surplus is reinvested into maintenance, expansion, training and wider GBTA public-interest projects, not distributed privately.

  • Transparency and accountability: Ongoing reporting, measurable KPIs, audit pathways and conflict-of-interest controls.

Community programmes

  • Learn-to-swim pathways with levels and certificates

  • Dedicated sessions for women and girls

  • Seniors and wellbeing sessions

  • Neighbourhood competitions to build confidence and spot talent

  • School partnerships to integrate swimming into youth activity

Environmental sustainability and cost control

  • Modern water treatment and recycling systems

  • Energy efficiency measures for heating and lighting

  • Preventive maintenance schedules to protect safety and reduce downtime

Jobs and skills

Local employment and training opportunities:

  • Coaches, lifeguards, water technicians, reception, security, cleaning, maintenance, facility management

  • Practical training pathways to professional qualifications

Proposed delivery phases

  1. Pilot sites to validate demand and operations

  2. Regional scale-up with standardised procurement and quality controls

  3. National coverage across 69 wilayas, driven by data and continuous improvement

Impact measures

Usage volumes, swimming proficiency rates, local safety outcomes, athlete progression, jobs created, community satisfaction, and operational sustainability.

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