[ad_1]
Algeria’s third agricultural census (RGA) shows significant growth in the agricultural sector, with more than 230,000 new farms added since 2001. This expansion is part of an ambitious national strategy to modernize agriculture, strengthen food security and diversify the economy away from its traditional reliance on hydrocarbons.
The results of the first census, conducted between May 19 and July 27, show the active participation of farmers and breeders. They are increasingly aware of the benefits they can gain from this initiative. Mohamed Tifouri, Director of Information Systems, Statistics and Forecasting at the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, explained that the significant increase in the number of farms, 230,000 more than in 2001, is mainly due to two factors: the development of land and the development of agriculture. New agricultural areas are constantly emerging across the country.
However, this expansion is not limited to the number of farms. It also reflects The positive dynamics of diversity This demonstrates the commitment of industry players to actively contribute to national agricultural development and achieve food security goals set by the government.
Significant growth in the agricultural sector based on data utilization
The census provides detailed and up-to-date information on the structure of agricultural land. AlgeriaThis information is crucial and will help to formulate specific development plans adapted to local realities. The aim is to optimize the use of agricultural land, increase productivity and effectively target investments in the sector.
In-depth analysis of the collected data, imported into the Ministry of Agriculture’s digital platform, will allow precise determination of the area of agricultural land, livestock numbers, main crop types, and other key indicators such as water use and adoption of modern agricultural technologies in each region. Mohamed Tifouri stressed that this analytical process is progressing smoothly and stressed the importance of taking the necessary time to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data. This information is essential for making informed decisions, strengthening food security, and promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural development.
Technological innovation and cross-departmental collaboration
The 2024 RGA stands out for its meticulous preparation, involving nearly 7,500 enumerators, controllers and supervisors across the country. For the first time in the history of the Algerian Agricultural Census Technology and digital tools are widely used. This modernization has significantly improved the efficiency, speed and reliability of the census process.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has announced its intention to share the Ministry’s database with all relevant ministries. This cross-sectoral collaborative approach is essential to achieving national food security goals and maximizing the impact of agricultural development initiatives. It will promote better coordination between agricultural, environmental, water and economic policies, thereby promoting a holistic approach to rural development.
Training and professionalization of the sector
The RGA also served as a training platform for the teams involved in the operation. This theoretical and practical training allowed them to perfect their knowledge of agricultural activities, thus contributing to the professionalization of the sector. Participants were trained in modern data collection techniques, the use of digital tools and preliminary analysis of the information collected.
The training program is part of a broader strategy to Modernization of the agricultural sector Algerians. By investing in human capital, Algeria seeks to train a new generation of farmers and agricultural technicians capable of adopting and disseminating innovative and sustainable agricultural practices. Professionalization of the sector is essential to improving the productivity, product quality and competitiveness of Algerian agriculture in national and international markets.
Food independence: Algeria leads in Maghreb region
In the North and North African region, Algeria stands out for its ongoing efforts to achieve food independence, especially in the cereal sector. Unlike its neighbors, Algeria has managed to maintain stable wheat productionnotably thanks to better hydraulic management. This resilience is even more remarkable in the face of climate challenges that have severely affected the region.
For example, due to severe drought, Morocco’s wheat production fell by nearly 40% to just 2.5 million tons in 2024, according to the FAO. Tunisia, while less affected, saw only a slight increase in production. Although Egypt is less dependent on rainfall due to the influence of the Nile River, it remains the world’s largest wheat importer, demonstrating the region’s vulnerability to fluctuations in the international market.
On the other hand, Algeria has made significant progress in reducing its reliance on imports. Investments in irrigation, improved agricultural technology, and the expansion of arable land have increased national production. In addition, the country has diversified its crops, encouraging the production of alternative grains such as barley and sorghum, thereby reducing its reliance on imported wheat.
Algeria’s strategy also includes improving storage and inventory management, as well as developing the local agri-food sector. These efforts will not only help strengthen national food security, but also help mitigate the impact of global price fluctuations on the national economy and citizens’ purchasing power.
Economic diversification: agriculture as a strategic pillar
Despite this progress, Algeria still faces significant challenges, particularly climate change and the need to further modernize its agricultural sector. However, its relatively favorable position compared to its North African neighbors demonstrates the effectiveness of its long-term agricultural strategy and its potential for greater food independence.
The significant expansion of the agricultural sector is part of Algeria’s broader economic diversification strategy. Dependence on hydrocarbonsWith a large share of its exports and revenues, Algeria is actively seeking to strengthen other sectors to ensure sustainable and resilient economic growth. Agriculture plays a key role in this economic transformation, with its huge potential to create jobs, contribute to food security and generate export revenues.
The massive investment in the agricultural sector aims to achieve several strategic goals. First, to significantly reduce dependence on food imports, which seriously affects the country’s trade balance. Second, to create new export opportunities, especially for high value-added agricultural products, and promote the diversification of foreign exchange sources. Finally, by providing employment and development prospects in agricultural areas, it will develop rural areas, narrow regional disparities and slow down rural outflow.
This multidimensional approach aims to strengthen the country’s economic resilience in the face of oil market volatility and lay the foundation for more balanced and inclusive growth.
The path to a prosperous agricultural future is clear. With strong political will, targeted investments and a coherent development strategy, Algeria is on the right track to realize the full potential of the agricultural sector. As a result, Algerian agriculture claims to be Key driver of national economic transformationpaving the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future for the entire country.
[ad_2]
Source link
