Tunisian agricultural group Mabrouka Holding has partnered with California-based UMIDA to introduce a subsurface irrigation system in Tunisian farms. The technology, already tested in US orchards, aims to deliver water directly to crop roots, reducing evaporation losses. The partnership, signed on October 29, 2026, marks UMIDA's first commercial venture in Africa. The agreement was reached during the International Agricultural Investment and Technology Fair in Tunis.
The subsurface irrigation system, called Aquifer Pipe, uses buried pipes to distribute water in the soil through capillary action, near the roots. This method keeps the top soil layers relatively dry, limiting evaporation losses. According to UMIDA, the technology can reduce water losses by 50% and energy costs by 20-40%. The company has tested the system in California's almond plantations, with reported reductions in water usage and varying yields.
The partnership was facilitated by the US-funded WAGES program, promoting economic and agricultural cooperation between the US and Tunisia. The US Embassy in Tunisia published a report highlighting the collaboration, which aims to reduce water waste and improve crop drought resistance in Tunisian farms. Mabrouka Holding, founded in 1994, is a Tunisian family-owned agricultural group with operations in Algeria and Libya.
Mabrouka Holding's subsidiary, Mabrouka Seeds, specializes in potato seeds and strawberry plants, cultivating 316 hectares of land, including 240 hectares of irrigated land, in partnership with local farmers. The group's diverse activities include agricultural production and seed development. The partnership with UMIDA is expected to enhance the group's irrigation practices and contribute to more efficient water use.
The introduction of subsurface irrigation technology in Tunisia's agricultural sector is seen as a significant step towards reducing water losses and improving crop yields. The system's effectiveness will depend on factors such as soil type, crop selection, and climate conditions. Further implementation and testing will be crucial in assessing the technology's potential benefits for Tunisian farmers.
UMIDA's entry into the African market through this partnership with Mabrouka Holding marks a significant milestone for the US company. The collaboration is expected to pave the way for further cooperation between Tunisian and US agricultural stakeholders. The Tunisian agricultural sector stands to benefit from the introduction of innovative irrigation technologies, enhancing its resilience to climate-related challenges.
The partnership between Mabrouka Holding and UMIDA has the potential to make a positive impact on Tunisia's agricultural sector, particularly in terms of water conservation and crop productivity. As the country continues to face challenges related to water scarcity and climate change, the adoption of efficient irrigation practices will be crucial for sustainable agricultural development.
Key points
- The partnership aims to reduce water losses by 50% and energy costs by 20-40% through the use of subsurface irrigation technology.
