Farmers in the northern Chaâleul region of Tunisia's Zaghouan governorate are demanding an urgent review of irrigation water costs and an audit of water associations. They claim that the current cost of irrigation water is straining their resources. The farmers stated that the current rate for one hour of irrigation water ranges between 30 and 40 Tunisian dinars. This cost has become unsustainable for small farmers, especially with the continuous rise in production costs.
The farmers expressed their concerns about the financial burden of irrigation water costs, which is affecting their ability to continue farming. They are calling for a revision of the current rates to make them more affordable. The issue is further complicated by the management of water associations, which are responsible for providing irrigation water to farmers. The farmers are demanding greater transparency and accountability in the management of these associations.
Mohamed Bousbeia, head of the local union for agriculture and fishing in the Nador region, stated that the problems with water associations go beyond just irrigation water. He noted that issues with management and transparency also affect associations responsible for providing drinking water. Bousbeia called for the renewal of these associations' structures and the implementation of more transparent management practices.
Bousbeia emphasized that improving the management of water associations is crucial to providing better services to the community and ensuring the proper use of water resources. He argued that this would help address the challenges facing the sector and ensure that farmers can continue to operate sustainably. The issue has significant implications for the region's agricultural sector and the livelihoods of local farmers.
The farmers' demands come amid rising production costs and concerns about the sustainability of agriculture in the region. The issue has sparked concerns about the impact on food security and the livelihoods of rural communities. The Tunisian government has been working to address the challenges facing the agricultural sector, including improving irrigation systems and supporting small farmers.
The audit of water associations and the review of irrigation water costs are seen as critical steps towards addressing the challenges facing the agricultural sector. The issue has highlighted the need for greater transparency and accountability in the management of water resources. The farmers' demands have sparked a wider debate about the need for reforms in the sector.
The situation in the Chaâleul region highlights the challenges facing Tunisia's agricultural sector, including the need for sustainable water management practices. The issue has significant implications for the country's food security and the livelihoods of rural communities. The government's response to the farmers' demands will be closely watched.
Key points
- Tunisian farmers demand review of irrigation water costs and audit of water associations.
- Current irrigation water costs range between 30 and 40 Tunisian dinars per hour.
- Improved management of water associations is crucial to addressing the challenges facing the agricultural sector.
