Minister of Agriculture Ensures Availability of Selected Seeds
The Minister of Agriculture, Water Resources, and Fisheries, Ezzeddine Ben Cheikh, assured that selected seeds are available in sufficient quantities. He made this statement during the periodic meeting of regional commissioners for agricultural development, held on Monday, August 18.
Review of Agricultural Season and Solutions to Challenges
The meeting focused on the review of the past agricultural season and the solutions to address the encountered difficulties. The discussions covered the harvest and collection of the 2024/2025 season, preparation for the next large-scale crop season, olive harvesting, and the management and valorization of marginal lands. Water supply and irrigation were also at the heart of the debates.
Minister's Encouragement and Instructions
The Minister encouraged regional commissioners to redouble their efforts to find solutions to the various problems encountered and to fully support state-owned farms. He also instructed them to develop a concerted strategy between the commissioners and stakeholders to optimize the management and valorization of marginal lands, with a focus on environmental protection.
Recommendations for Potato Cultivation and Water Supply
Furthermore, the Minister recommended increasing the areas dedicated to potato cultivation, particularly on state-owned lands, while ensuring sufficient water supply for irrigation to achieve self-sufficiency.
Cactus Cochineal and Animal Health
Regarding the cactus cochineal, the Minister stressed the need to intensify awareness campaigns to curb its spread. Finally, on the animal health front, Ben Cheikh highlighted the importance of strengthening vaccination campaigns, particularly against nodular dermatosis, to protect livestock.
