Tunisia to Launch "Green Belt" National Reforestation Project in 2026
The Tunisian Minister of Environment, Habib Obeid, has announced that Tunisia will launch its largest national reforestation project, dubbed the "Green Belt," in 2026. The project aims to protect the country from the advancement of desert sands and to enhance Tunisia's environmental heritage.
Announcement and Ceremony
The announcement was made during a ceremony organized by the National Gene Bank in Tunis, on the occasion of the National Tree Festival. The event brought together the Minister of Environment, the Minister of Family, Women, Children, and the Elderly, as well as representatives from the Tunisian Scouts and the Tunisian Red Crescent.
Project Objectives and Scope
The Minister emphasized that the Green Belt project is part of the 2026-2030 Development Plan, which includes strengthening the environmental sector and implementing measures to address climate challenges in Tunisia. The project will span from Gabès to Gafsa, passing through Sfax, Kairouan, and Sidi Bouzid, and will provide an environmental opportunity to promote local food products and expand green spaces through reforestation. Habib Obeid specified that the goal is to create an ecological space beneficial to all Tunisian citizens.
Environmental Context and Progress
According to the Minister, two-thirds of the country's area is composed of green spaces, divided between forests and pastures (one-third), agricultural land (one-third), and desert (one-third). Even the Tunisian desert has a remarkable environmental heritage. In terms of reforestation, the General Administration of Forests has already planted over 7,000 trees as part of preservation and intensification efforts.
National Tree Festival Celebrations
The National Tree Festival ceremony also included the planting of trees in the space connecting the National Gene Bank to Tunis-Carthage Airport, as well as an exhibition showcasing dishes highlighting the natural flavors of Tunisia's genetic heritage.
Call to Action
Participants stressed the need to strengthen awareness and communication about the role of tree genetic resources in sustainable development and the importance of preserving these resources for future generations.
