Algerian Minister of Agriculture, Cherif Omari, recently visited Tizi Ouzou, where he emphasized the importance of training and scientific research in enhancing the country's agricultural production. Speaking at the Institut de technologie et moyens agricoles spécialisé en agriculture de montagne (ITMAS) in Boukhalfa, Omari highlighted that these elements are crucial for improving production quality and quantity, with the ultimate goal of increasing exports. He stressed the need for technical training and upgrading the skills of farmers and sector cadres.
During his visit, Omari launched the 2019/2020 national olive oil campaign. He noted that research and innovation can provide solutions to optimize agricultural spaces, particularly in mountainous regions where agriculture plays a significant role in the local economy and population. The minister recalled the government's focus on valorizing scientific research and university skills, stating that his department has pushed for providing researchers with necessary conditions to create employment opportunities in the sector.
Omari highlighted the importance of collaboration between the Ministry of Agriculture and other ministries, such as those responsible for vocational training, education, and scientific research. He mentioned the recent signing of framework agreements, including one with the Ministry of Higher Education, to establish six research units within agricultural institutes. These partnerships aim to leverage research and innovation to address challenges faced by producers and professionals, ultimately improving production capacities and resilience to climate change.
The minister witnessed the signing of three agreements at ITMAS, including two cooperation deals between the University of Tizi-Ouzou's Department of Agronomic Sciences and ITMAS, as well as between ITMAS and the Tizi-Ouzou Olive Oil Interprofessional Council. A third agreement was signed between the Tizi-Ouzou Olive Oil Interprofessional Council and the Regional Agricultural Mutual Fund (CRMA) on insurance. These partnerships reflect the Algerian government's efforts to strengthen collaboration between research institutions, professional organizations, and industry stakeholders.
During his visit, Omari also inspected various facilities, including a nursery of the Regional Rural Engineering Enterprise (ERGR) Djurdjura in Tadmait, where he reviewed the reforestation and greening program. He then visited an olive table confitery in the same commune and an onion storage unit in Draa Ben Khedda. At the storage unit, Omari announced that Algeria has achieved a significant increase in onion production, resulting in a surplus of 2 million quintals, up from 1 million quintals last year.
The minister highlighted Algeria's progress in onion production, noting that the country no longer imports onions, having previously imported 120,000 quintals per year. He attributed this success to measures implemented by the government to boost national production. Omari also emphasized that the Algerian onion is in high demand internationally due to its quality, aroma, and flavor, as well as being a bio-product. This success has enabled the country to consider exporting onions.
Omari's visit also included a stop at the Draa Ben Khedda cereal and dried vegetable cooperative, where he recalled that Algeria achieved self-sufficiency in durum wheat and barley in June. He stated that measures are being taken to achieve self-sufficiency in soft wheat as well. The minister's emphasis on training, research, and collaboration underscores the Algerian government's commitment to developing its agricultural sector and increasing its global competitiveness.
Key points
- Algerian Minister of Agriculture Cherif Omari stresses the importance of training and research in improving agricultural production.
- Algeria achieves self-sufficiency in onion production and aims to export surplus.
- The government is promoting collaboration between research institutions, professional organizations, and industry stakeholders to drive agricultural development.
