Algeria has developed an agricultural strategy that has succeeded in turning the desert into fertile ground. "This is a way to encourage economic activity and develop agriculture in the El Oued region. Our ambition is to export our production abroad. I greet all farmers who, despite these climatic conditions, have managed to supply the best potato production in the country, a product whose quality is recognized worldwide," says potato producer Aladine Meknassi.

In addition to potatoes, they also grow tomatoes, peanuts and onions. The water is removed from the water table to irrigate the plots and the palm branches on the edges create a kind of microclimate inside. "Almost every farm here is connected to electricity. They use modern technologies that save water to preserve the water table. Few pesticides are used. And I insist on this phrase: it is sustainable agriculture," adds Adlene Mathallah, director of agricultural services at Wilaya de El Oued.

Belkhir Djebali, daouia property manager, says that "the positive side of Saharan agriculture is the existence of sunshine all year round. There are fewer diseases. 70% of Saharan products are organic." "When you're faster, you make more money. This is exactly what mechanization has done, keeping agriculture sustainable and preserving the oasis and ecosystem of the oasis," he adds.

Amine Bensemmane, president of the Filaha Innove Foundation, points out that "this is the current policy. It's a challenge policy, to be able to produce more and be able to reduce imports and develop partnerships."

Source: Agrolink