✏️ BY: Dr. Hana Saada
Algiers, Algeria | July 7th, 2024 — The arrival of M’naguer dates, a prized early harvest fruit from the palm groves of southern Algeria, has sparked significant interest among consumers in Ghardaïa since late June.
Freshly picked from the palm groves of the Tidikelt region, particularly in In Salah, M’naguer dates mature under the intense summer heat, gaining popularity among consumers in Ghardaïa. Known for their honey-like sweetness and golden-brown hue, these dates are prominently displayed on market stalls and streets throughout M’Zab’s capital, commanding prices ranging from 550 to 700 Algerian dinars per kilogram, depending on size and flavor.
El Hadj Bachir, a local fruit and vegetable merchant, explains that M’naguer dates are harvested manually using the “grappillage” method. This meticulous process involves climbing palm trees early in the morning or late afternoon to carefully pick only fully ripe date clusters, ensuring the finest quality fruit.
Traditionally, the M’naguer harvest typically begins in early July and extends to mid-August. However, this year, the ripening process has advanced, attributed to observed climate changes affecting the fruit’s skin with wrinkles and creases.
For merchants like Bachir, the appearance of M’naguer dates presents both a lucrative opportunity and a challenge due to the fruit’s fragility and susceptibility to climate fluctuations. Ideally, they should be consumed within three days of picking, making timely delivery crucial.
Despite challenges in the date supply chain, the abundance of M’naguer dates in Ghardaïa’s markets has supplanted stored dates held by speculators, drawing crowds of consumers and enthusiasts alike. Packaged in confectionery-style cardboard boxes, these dates are popularly purchased as gifts, symbolizing good fortune during the vibrant summer season.
In conclusion, M’naguer dates not only represent a local delicacy but also embody the rich cultural and agricultural heritage of southern Algeria. Their early arrival delights locals and visitors, showcasing the region’s dedication to preserving traditional harvest practices amidst evolving climatic conditions.
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