A court in Tunisia has ruled for the temporary closure of a black soldier fly farm located in Menzel Bouzelfa, within the Nabeul governorate. This decision comes as investigations into the matter continue. The announcement was made by Rim Sghaier, a deputy representing the Menzel Bouzelfa constituency, during a broadcast on Mosaïque Fm.
The project has faced strong opposition from local residents for several weeks. They are primarily concerned about the farm's location in a residential and agricultural area, close to a school and a hospital. Residents worry about potential health and environmental impacts, particularly due to the use of organic waste to feed the larvae and the possible nuisance that could affect their living environment and agricultural activities.
Tensions escalated on the evening of October 21, 2026, when a gathering of residents in front of the farm to prevent its launch turned violent. A vehicle carrying equipment for an event organized by the site's managers reportedly struck and killed a man in his sixties. This incident led to the death of the individual and sparked widespread tensions in the area, culminating in the torching of the farm by residents.
Following the tragic event, the public prosecutor ordered an autopsy and initiated an investigation into suspicion of murder. The goal is to clarify the circumstances of the death and identify any potential responsibilities. Prior to this, on October 16, the governor of Nabeul had decided to revoke the classification authorization granted to the project and launched an investigation into the conditions of its implementation and related responsibilities.
Deputy Rim Sghaier also addressed the circumstances surrounding the events in the region. She criticized what she sees as the manipulation of information about a local activist to discredit the protest movement. Sghaier described such actions as unacceptable and called for the establishment of responsibilities for all parties that failed to intervene when necessary.
The black soldier fly farm project has been a point of contention among the local population, with concerns about its location and potential impacts. The project's proponents have not publicly addressed the residents' concerns. The court's decision to close the farm provisionally reflects the ongoing tensions and the need for further investigation.
The situation in Menzel Bouzelfa remains volatile as the community waits for the investigations to conclude and for clarity on the project's future. The incident has highlighted the challenges of balancing industrial development with community concerns and environmental considerations.
Key points
- A Tunisian court has ordered the provisional closure of a black soldier fly farm in Menzel Bouzelfa.
- The farm's location in a residential and agricultural area has sparked concerns among local residents.
- An investigation into the circumstances of a fatal incident related to the farm is ongoing.
