The village of Tabbourt, located in the commune of Ifigha, Algeria, is currently hosting its sixth Olive Festival. The event has drawn numerous participants who are showcasing various local products. This year's festival is particularly significant as it highlights the efforts to label the olive oil from the Azazga and Bouzeguene regions. The festival's focus on labeling is a crucial step towards enhancing the region's olive oil production.
According to Makhlouf Laib, Director of Agricultural Services, the festival marks a significant milestone in the labeling process for the olive oil from the nine communes of Azazga and Bouzeguene. The region's olive oil is expected to be labeled as "Achvayli n'ath Ghobri." Laib mentioned that a cooperative has been established, and a set of standards has been developed. The dossier has been submitted to the Ministry for validation, and training sessions are planned to commence soon.
The production process of olive oil in the region has been upgraded to meet international standards. The use of plastic crates and new harvesting tools has been introduced to improve efficiency and quality. This development is expected to boost the region's olive oil production and enhance its reputation in the market. The labeling of the olive oil is anticipated to take place by the end of the year.
One of the main attractions of the festival is the visit to the ancient village, which has preserved its authentic charm. The village has served as the backdrop for several films, including the recent one on Si Moh Ou Mhend. The village is home to the strategic reserve of Aarch Ath Ghobri, also known as "akedjoudh n tudherth d lghella," which consists mainly of olive oil and dried figs.
The history of the strategic reserve dates back to 1645 when two saints, Sidi Abderrahmane Al Illouli and Sidi Meziane Oumedour, requested that the village's "aachour" be allocated to the two zaouias. The villagers decided to give a third to each zaouia and keep a third for the poor. This tradition continues to this day, with two-thirds of the produce being allocated to the zaouias.
The festival also features artisans showcasing their products, including natural soaps made from olive oil. One participant, Bouataba, from the village of Boutaba, has been producing these soaps using traditional methods passed down through generations. The demand for these bio-products is increasing both nationally and internationally, offering a potential source of income for rural families.
The Olive Festival in Ifigha highlights the region's rich agricultural heritage and its efforts to promote local products. The event provides a platform for producers to showcase their products and connect with potential buyers. With the focus on labeling and upgrading production standards, the festival is expected to contribute to the growth of the region's olive oil industry.
Key points
- Algeria's Ifigha commune is hosting its sixth Olive Festival, focusing on labeling and promoting local olive oil production.
- The region's olive oil is expected to be labeled as "Achvayli n'ath Ghobri" by the end of the year.
- The festival showcases local products, including natural soaps made from olive oil, and provides a platform for producers to connect with potential buyers.
