From Vision to Victory
In February 2018, a transformative vision took root in the arid landscapes of Saki, Menzel Habib, Gabes, Tunisia. The Green Desert Groupment, founded by Anouar Boubaker, embarked on a mission to revitalize local agriculture and uplift rural communities. With a 50-hectare expanse under their stewardship, including 7 hectares for irrigated and dry farming and 43 hectares of rangeland, their journey has become a beacon of sustainable innovation and empowerment.
Anouar’s inspiration for the groupment came from a deep recognition of the untapped potential within their region. Confronted with challenges such as inadequate animal nutrition and the undervaluation of wool from the region’s 90,000 sheep, Anouar envisioned a holistic approach to these issues. He sought to not only address immediate agricultural needs but also to create lasting change.
Central to the groupment’s mission is the integration of plant production, local seed preservation, and animal husbandry. With a focus on sheep, goat, and poultry farming, the groupment manages a herd of around 100 sheep and goats using semi-intensive breeding practices to enhance productivity and resilience. Their active participation in agricultural seminars and workshops further demonstrates their commitment to knowledge sharing and innovation.
But Anouar’s vision extended beyond conventional farming practices. He saw an opportunity to elevate the role of rural women, proposing the establishment of a center for artisanal products. This center would enable women to transform undervalued wool into high-quality products, creating a ripple effect that boosts local tourism and generates economic opportunities. Anouar is convinced that this initiative could be a game-changer, fostering a hub for traditional and artisanal activities that resonate on both a regional and international scale.
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Blending Tradition with Innovation for a Sustainable Future
The Green Desert Groupment also plays a crucial role in advancing organic farming practices through the KHNA project. By educating local farmers about organic methods, traditional seed conservation, and agroecology, they are championing sustainable development and preserving local heritage. Their efforts highlight the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with modern practices to enhance agricultural productivity and environmental stewardship.
Today, the Green Desert Groupment stands as a testament to the power of vision and perseverance. Their success story is not just about transforming agriculture; it’s about empowering communities, revitalizing traditions, and paving the way for a sustainable future. Through their innovative approach and dedication, Anouar and his team are making a significant impact, demonstrating how a shared vision can drive meaningful change and inspire others to follow suit.
The Green Desert Groupment’s journey is a powerful reminder that with creativity, commitment, and collaboration, even the most challenging obstacles can be turned into opportunities for growth and positive transformation.
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This article was edited by Dr. Najla Dhen, Digital Knowledge Officer and Rural Service Provider Coach within the Knowledge Hub for Organic Agriculture in North Africa (KHNA) Project. She is also a postdoctoral researcher with a PhD in Plant Production, specializing in Organic Agriculture.”
Author: Khaoula MOKRANI
My name is Khaoula Mokrani. I am a Doctor in “Agronomic Sciences” speciality “Biotechnology and Plant Production”. I am currently the Regional Knowledge Manager in the global project “Knowledge Center for Organic Agriculture in Africa “KCOA”, within the Technical Center for Organic Agriculture in Tunisia (CTAB). My main role is to collect, validate and prepare traditional and scientific knowledge in Organic Agriculture, in particular, the production, processing and marketing of organic products and also to participate in the creation of a digital knowledge platform relates to North Africa and to ensure its sustainable and continuous supply by complete, reliable and up-to-date knowledge products useful for multipliers in their mission of knowledge dissemination. Here, I precisely, focused on collecting and preparing knowledge affiliated with the main needs of knowledge multipliers like pest and disease management, financing, marketing options, organic certification and soil health. Thus, I successfully collaborate with other Knowledge hubs in order to guarantee the connectivity and the synchronization of our missions while respecting the specificities of each region. Through this projects we want to engage more with influential decision-makers and thought leaders in international public policy. We are open to challenges, conversations, and an exchange of ideas from the...
