Tunisia's Ghar El-Damien forest protection center, located in the Jundubah governorate, is set to enhance its capabilities with the launch of a new command center for alert and forest fire monitoring on October 13, 2026. This development is part of a broader effort to strengthen forest protection in the region, which is highly vulnerable to climate change, drought, and heatwaves. The center's upgrade is supported by the Global Environment Facility for North Africa.
The Mediterranean forest ecosystems in Tunisia play a vital role in regulating the climate, protecting water resources, and supporting local communities. However, these ecosystems are under significant pressure due to climate change, prolonged droughts, and heatwaves. This has led to an increased risk of forest fires, which can have devastating consequences for the environment and local populations. In response, the Tunisian authorities are investing in prevention, monitoring, and early warning systems.
The new command center at Ghar El-Damien will utilize a technological solution known as "FOKS," a unified system for operational control of fires. This system aims to enhance monitoring capabilities, improve real-time communication between field agents and command centers, and reduce response times to forest fires. The implementation of FOKS is a collaborative effort between various stakeholders, including the General Directorate of Forests, the Regional Agricultural Development Commission in Jundubah, and the Global Environment Facility for North Africa.
The launch of the command center and the introduction of the FOKS system are part of a larger initiative to strengthen forest fire prevention in the Mediterranean region. This project is complemented by another initiative, "People for Biodiversity," which aims to promote sustainable forest management and protect biodiversity. The combined efforts of these projects will contribute to the development of a comprehensive strategy for forest fire prevention and management in Tunisia.
A training program and simulation exercise will take place on October 13-14, 2026, to familiarize users with the FOKS system and ensure its effective operation. The training will cover key scenarios, including communication protocols and emergency response procedures. Upon completion of the training, users will be equipped to operate the system independently, and a clear roadmap will be established for its operational deployment.
The upgrade of the Ghar El-Damien forest protection center and the introduction of the FOKS system mark significant steps forward in Tunisia's efforts to protect its forest resources. The country's forests are not only essential for maintaining ecological balance but also provide vital ecosystem services, including carbon sequestration and soil conservation. By investing in advanced monitoring and response systems, Tunisia aims to mitigate the risks associated with forest fires and promote sustainable forest management.
The successful implementation of the FOKS system at the Ghar El-Damien center will serve as a model for other regions in Tunisia and beyond. As the country continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change, the development of effective forest fire prevention and management strategies will remain a top priority. With the support of international partners and the commitment of local stakeholders, Tunisia is taking proactive steps to safeguard its natural resources and promote sustainable development.
Key points
- Tunisia's Ghar El-Damien forest protection center to launch advanced fire monitoring system on October 13, 2026.
- The FOKS system aims to enhance monitoring capabilities, improve communication, and reduce response times to forest fires.
- The project is supported by the Global Environment Facility for North Africa and aims to promote sustainable forest management and protect biodiversity.
