The Regional Association of Hunters in Zaghouan, Tunisia, has called for a review of certain provisions in the agriculture ministry's decision opening the hunting season. The association's Secretary-General, Fathi Al-Aboud, made the appeal during an electoral meeting to renew the association's structures and discuss preparations for the new season. Al-Aboud specifically cited Section 13 of the decision, which prohibits hunting wild boars and birds in closed areas.
According to Al-Aboud, the association believes that revising this section is essential. The agriculture minister had reportedly promised to review the provision. The issue has sparked debate among hunters and conservationists in the region. The hunting season for large game, including wild boars and golden African wolves, began on October 4, 2026, and will run until January 31, 2027, in several governorates, including Zaghouan.
The hunting season for large game will extend to March 21, 2027, in other governorates, including Tozeur, Qebli, Gafsa, Gabes, Tataouine, Sfax, and Sidi Bouzid. In contrast, the hunting season for waterfowl, houbara bustards, and other bird species will run from November 22, 2026, to March 28, 2027. The varied hunting seasons reflect the different habitats and ecosystems across Tunisia.
The Zaghouan region is known for its rich biodiversity, with many species of plants and animals found nowhere else in the country. However, conservation efforts have often conflicted with the interests of local hunters and farmers. The agriculture ministry's decision aims to balance these competing interests while ensuring the long-term sustainability of Tunisia's natural resources.
The Regional Association of Hunters in Zaghouan represents the interests of local hunters and has been actively involved in discussions with the agriculture ministry. The association's call for a review of the hunting ban reflects the concerns of its members, who argue that the current regulations are too restrictive. The ministry's response to the association's appeal remains to be seen.
In recent years, Tunisia has faced growing pressure to conserve its natural resources, particularly in the face of climate change and habitat degradation. The country has made efforts to protect its biodiversity, including establishing national parks and protected areas. However, these efforts have often been hampered by limited resources and competing priorities.
The debate over hunting regulations in Tunisia highlights the challenges of balancing conservation and development goals. As the country moves forward, it will need to engage with a range of stakeholders, including hunters, farmers, and conservationists, to find solutions that work for everyone. The outcome of the association's appeal will be closely watched by those interested in Tunisia's environmental future.
Key points
- The Tunisian government faces pressure to balance conservation and development goals.
- Local hunters in Zaghouan are calling for a review of the agriculture ministry's decision banning hunting of wild boars and birds in closed areas.
- The hunting season in Tunisia will run until January 31, 2027, or March 21, 2027, depending on the region and species.
