Collective Adventure in Sened: A Beacon of Hope for Rural Development
In the heart of the Gafsa governorate, a collective adventure led by women has given birth to one of the most inspiring agricultural projects in the region. What started as a simple idea shared around a common dream has quickly transformed into a structured, innovative, and environmentally conscious group, rooted in the values of organic farming and sustainable economy. Today, this project, carried by housewives, stands as a model of modern rural organization, federative and respectful of the environment.
The Origins of the Groupement de Développement Agricole Biologique (GDAB)
The GDAB finds its origin in an unexpected but deeply symbolic initiative: a group of housewives decided to transform their traditional skills into a sustainable economic lever. In a region where opportunities are scarce, their ambition quickly attracted the attention of local actors, who chose to support them in giving shape to this new project and providing a solid legal framework as early as 2022.
A Diverse Range of Activities
This group, now composed of about fifty women, has built itself around a varied and innovative field of activity, perfectly aligned with the principles of organic farming. Among these activities are:
- The valorization of sheep wool and skin, a domain particularly encouraged by the National Environment Protection Agency (ANPE) due to its positive impact on reducing organic waste and preserving the environment.
- Organic poultry farming
- The valorization of local pistachios
- The export of mint, a promising segment with a first foreign client already won over
Success Through Collaboration
The success of this initiative relies not only on the will and creativity of these women but also on the constant support of several regional and national institutions. The Gafsa Regional Development Commission (CRDA), the ANPE, and the Kawthar Center have provided expertise, technical support, and administrative assistance, enabling the group to structure itself, train, and refine its methods according to organic farming and sustainable development standards.
A Model of Dynamism and Ecological Transition
Thanks to this support ecosystem, the GDAB Sened has become, in a short time, a regional model of female dynamism, solidarity, and ecological transition. Its influence now extends beyond the borders of the Sened delegation, as a similar project begins to emerge in the neighboring El Guettar delegation, proof of the inspiration and momentum generated by this pioneering experience.
Transforming Traditional Practices into Modern Opportunities
By transforming ancestral practices into modern opportunities, combining traditional agriculture with the requirements of sustainability, and offering women in the region real economic autonomy, the Agricultural Development Group reflects the vision of collective commitment and agri-food innovation. This illustrates how a rural territory can reinvent itself. Organic farming is not just a technique here; it becomes a societal project, a driver of prosperity, and a real reason for hope for future generations.
