Tunisian Minister Visits Agricultural Training Center and Water‑Management Projects in Kairouan
Kairouan, Tunisia – 1 May 2024 –
Ezzedine Ben Cheikh, Minister of Agriculture, Water Resources and Fisheries, carried out a working visit on Monday to the governorate of Kairouan. The trip focused on the Sectorial Center for Agricultural Vocational Training for the Development of the Irrigated Areas of Barrouta and several key water‑management initiatives in the region.
Inspection of the Barrouta Training Center
During his visit, the minister stressed the need to upgrade the center’s infrastructure because of its pivotal role in managing and conserving water resources, according to the TAP news agency. Mourad Ben Omar, Regional Commissioner for Agriculture in Kairouan, echoed the minister’s remarks.
Key points discussed:
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Future Master Plan | Emphasis on promoting water‑related professions to meet the growing demand caused by recurring climate challenges and the necessity of optimal water management for agricultural development. |
| Facility Renovation | The center and its dormitory will be refurbished in the coming months, expanding capacity to more than 150 beds for both male and female trainees. |
| Current Training Activity | Director Kamel Derai reported that the center currently hosts 75 trainees in its initial‑training program. |
| Continuing Education | Approximately 140 trainees per year receive ongoing training in specialties such as: • Installation & maintenance of irrigation networks • Water‑pump repair • Cattle breeding • Milk and meat production |
Field Visit to El Alem Agricultural Complex (Sbikha Delegation)
The minister also toured the El Alem agricultural complex in the Sbikha delegation, where he reviewed:
- Livestock disinfection programs aimed at combating animal‑origin diseases.
- The progress of the treated‑wastewater project linked to the Sbikha wastewater‑treatment plant.
Water‑Supply Projects in Oueslatia
Ben Cheikh inspected two additional water‑infrastructure projects:
| Project | Status | Funding | Objectives |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rehabilitation of the Ksar Lemsa drinking‑water system (Oueslatia delegation) | 20 % completed | International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) – USD 13.3 million | • Provide safe drinking water to 7,270 people • Connect 1,454 families to an individual water network |
Why This Matters
- Water security remains a cornerstone for Tunisia’s agricultural sector, especially under increasing climate pressure.
- Upgrading vocational training facilities ensures a skilled workforce capable of implementing modern irrigation and livestock‑health practices.
- The IFAD‑funded water‑supply project exemplifies international cooperation to improve rural living standards and support sustainable agriculture.
For further information, please contact the Ministry of Agriculture, Water Resources and Fisheries or the TAP news agency.
