Drop in Prickly Pear Cactus Production in Bou Argoub
Sami El Houidi, president of the local agricultural union in Bou Argoub, confirmed that the production of spineless prickly pear cactus has dropped by 40% in the current season due to the spread of the cochineal insect. The harvest is not expected to exceed 3,000 tons, whereas the average production is usually between 6,000 and 7,000 tons.
90% of Plantations Affected
In a statement made to the TAP on Wednesday, Houidi specified that 90% of the cactus plantations have been damaged by an unprecedented invasion of cochineal. The insect has even spread to residential areas and homes, causing concern and fear among residents due to skin irritations, particularly among children.
Lack of Action from Authorities
Mr. El Houidi highlighted the indignation of the inhabitants of Bou Argoub in the face of this epidemic and the lack of timely intervention from the competent authorities. He recalled that letters have been sent to regional authorities and repeated appeals have been made in the media for over two years to carry out treatments to limit the severity of the insect and prioritize the delegation of Bou Argoub.
He also deplored the "lack of action" from the Regional Delegation for Agricultural Development in Nabeul and the absence of preventive measures that could have limited the spread of the insect. He added that this inaction has worsened the situation, and the current stage of the invasion makes the fight "difficult to control." He called for the need for monitoring, accelerating the distribution of treatments, and an "equitable" distribution in the affected areas.
Bou Argoub, a Major Producer
The delegation of Bou Argoub, in the governorate of Nabeul, represents 90% of the national production of spineless prickly pear cactus. This product has capital importance for export, with the ability to establish itself in foreign markets. The quantities exported each year are estimated at 800 tons. The sector employs around 5,000 farmers and contributes to the dynamism of the regional economy.
It is worth noting that the production area of spineless prickly pear cactus covers approximately 500 hectares in the delegation of Bou Argoub, mainly in the regions of Beni Wael, Borj Hafidh, El Amra, and El Machrouha.
