Youcef Cherfa Announces the Inauguration of Algeria’s Agricultural Gene Bank by Mid-2025

BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria | December 12th, 2024 — Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Fisheries Youcef Cherfa has unveiled plans for the completion and commissioning of Algeria’s first Agricultural Gene Bank in the first half of 2025. Speaking on Tuesday, Cherfa emphasized that this landmark project, currently under construction, has reached the structural completion stage, with plans underway to equip the facility and allocate a management budget shortly.

Cherfa highlighted the strategic significance of the Gene Bank, noting that it will serve as a cornerstone in preserving and utilizing the nation’s agricultural biodiversity. This initiative aims to bolster Algeria’s agricultural resilience and reduce reliance on imported seeds, an issue that incurs substantial financial costs. To further this objective, the minister revealed ongoing negotiations with a foreign partner for the local production of vegetable seeds, with operations anticipated to commence by late 2025 or early 2026.

Agricultural Land Reforms and Cold Storage Network Development

During a ceremony in Boumerdès, where 57 agricultural concession contracts were distributed, Cherfa commended the region’s national leadership in resolving agricultural land issues, describing it as a model for the regularization of both farmland and traditional estates.

Addressing the critical need for food security infrastructure, Cherfa announced the ministry’s initiative to establish a nationwide network of small- and medium-sized cold storage facilities. This network aims to support local producers by providing essential storage solutions, thereby enhancing market stability and preventing supply shortages, particularly for staple goods such as potatoes, onions, garlic, and meats.

“This project is urgent and essential. It will enable producers to market their goods efficiently and contribute to the national regulatory system, ensuring food availability in times of scarcity,” Cherfa stated. He also lauded President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s recent directive urging national banks to provide financial support and facilitate the construction of these vital cold storage units.

Preparations for Ramadan 2025

Looking ahead to the holy month of Ramadan, Cherfa announced proactive measures to ensure market stability and prevent shortages. The ministry has initiated a preemptive storage program for key commodities, including potatoes, onions, and garlic, in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce. These efforts aim to guarantee sufficient supply and steady pricing throughout the month of fasting.

About Dzair Tube Media Group

Dzair Tube has firmly positioned itself as a leading force in Algerian digital journalism, delivering a rich and diverse array of content. Available in Arabic, French, and English, Dzair Tube captivates a broad audience, drawing over half a million daily clicks.

The platform’s excellence was notably recognized with the prestigious President of the Republic’s Award for Professional Journalist in the Electronic Press category on October 22, 2022. This accolade underscores Dzair Tube’s steadfast commitment to the highest journalistic standards.

Dzair Tube’s substantial online footprint includes 350,000 YouTube subscribers, over six million followers across various Facebook pages, and 450,000 Instagram followers. The digital channel serves as a nexus for a wide range of programming, spanning news, sports, entertainment, culture, and religion, catering to a diverse audience.

Boasting cutting-edge studios and advanced technology, Dzair Tube’s digital channel has attracted a significant viewership with its varied programs. It facilitates interactive discussions with key figures from various sectors, promoting public discourse and engagement. Beyond news, Dzair Tube excels in producing marketing documentaries, short TV commercials, and high-viewership shows.

The print edition of Dzair Tube’s sports newspaper, “Dzair Sport,” further attests to the platform’s influence, with over 50,000 daily downloads from the official Dzair Tube website.

Awarded the Media Leadership Award by the Minister of Communication, Mohamed Laâgab, Dzair Tube continues to shape the Algerian digital media landscape, maintaining its position of influence and impact. Additionally, Dzair Tube’s prominence in Algeria’s media scene was celebrated at the ninth edition of the “Hilals of the Television” competition, solidifying its status as a media leader.

Stay Connected with Dzair Tube