Algeria is divided into 58 provinces (wilayat) that serve as the primary administrative subdivisions of the country. These provinces function as the first level in Algeria's two-tier administrative structure, positioned between the national government and the local communes. Each province is headed by a wali (governor) appointed by the President of Algeria, who acts as the representative of the central government at the regional level. Provinces are responsible for coordinating public services, implementing national policies, overseeing local development projects, and managing regional infrastructure. They also supervise the communes within their territories and serve as intermediaries between local authorities and the central administration in Algiers. The provincial structure enables the government to maintain administrative control across Algeria's vast territory while providing essential services such as education, healthcare, public works, and security at the regional level.