Tunisia has launched a strategic plan for 2026-2035 to restore its forest ecosystems and enhance their resilience to climate change. The plan involves reforestation of 30,000 hectares and modernization of fire prevention and monitoring systems. This initiative aims to address the losses suffered by Tunisia's forest wealth between 2011 and 2025, which included the burning of 74,602 hectares at a total cost of approximately 241.16 million dinars.
The strategy focuses on renewing the forest cover by prioritizing the reforestation of cork oak and Aleppo pine forests, as well as modernizing infrastructure. Additionally, the plan involves integrating local plant species adapted to climate conditions. The modernization of fire prevention and monitoring systems will be achieved through the adoption of digital platforms and the establishment of automated monitoring towers and water reservoirs in high-risk areas.
The plan emphasizes the importance of participatory management of forest resources, involving the mobilization of water resources, climate finance, and partnerships with the private sector and civil society. This approach aims to ensure the sustainability of the planned interventions. For the 2026-2027 season, the plan includes interventions on 24,000 hectares, including 15,260 hectares for natural regeneration and 8,716 hectares for afforestation and rangeland development.
The plan also involves the production and planting of 10 million seedlings and the rehabilitation of infrastructure for ten forest nurseries. Furthermore, 1.8 million seedlings will be planted in partnership with associations, civil society, and economic institutions as part of the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration for 2021-2030.
Tunisia's forest ecosystem restoration plan is aligned with its efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change and promote sustainable development. The country's forests play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity, regulating water cycles, and supporting local communities.
On November 8, 2026, Tunisia will celebrate its National Tree Day, which this year will be held under the theme "A Tree Today, A Forest Tomorrow." This event highlights the importance of trees and forests in the country's ecological and economic development.
The implementation of this strategy is expected to have positive impacts on Tunisia's environment, economy, and local communities. The plan's success will depend on effective collaboration among stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector entities, and civil society organizations.
Key points
- Tunisia aims to reforest 30,000 hectares by 2035.
- The plan involves modernizing fire prevention and monitoring systems.
- The strategy emphasizes participatory management of forest resources.
