(TAP)-The “Deymine” programme aimed to improve the sustainability of fisheries resources management and support organic agriculture in Tunisia, was officially kicked off on Friday in Tunis, with funding worth €3 million.
Stemming from an agreement signed on August 21, 2019, between Tunisia and Belgium on a debt conversion (€3 million) into a development programme, the “Deymine” programme comprises two projects to support the organic agriculture (BioTED) and fisheries sectors in Tunisia (PROGEPECT), the Ministry of Agriculture said.
The BioTED project (Project for the development of an organic, sustainable and equitable agritourism sector for the benefit of Tunisian territories) seeks to create economic, social and environmental added value for the populations living in the various bioclimatic levels, through the development of an organic, sustainable and equitable agritourism sector.
Implemented by the General Directorate of Organic Agriculture (DGAB) under the Ministry of Agriculture, this project provides for the creation of a PPP (public/private partnership) support structure and a new profession, rural eco-consulting with specialisation in supporting agritourism projects.
This kind of rural tourism in Tunisia requires the establishment of an ecosystem with several levers, including the preparation of the administrative fabric at both the central and local levels so that it is conducive to this new form of organic tourism in rural areas, and the alignment of the reception infrastructure with the standards of the tourist service specific to organic agritourism.
It also requires the promotion of this new form of activity associated with agricultural activity, both among the general public and among decision-makers and commercial operators in both sectors, and the drawing together of organic agricultural operators.
According to the Ministry, a first phase of support and expertise of the BioTED project was carried out by Belgian institutions; namely the Institut Eco-conseil, Accueil Champêtre Wallonie and Inter Environnement Wallonie.
The PROGEPECT project aims to improve the state of fisheries resources and the living conditions of fishermen and to reinforce participatory governance.
The project also seeks to consolidate reforms in the fisheries sector, with a particular focus on small-scale fishing.
Implemented by the Directorate General of Fisheries and Aquaculture, this project will finance the development of sensitive marine areas into artificial reefs and the acquisition of equipment and infrastructure for artisanal fishing communities.
It will help strengthen the training and extension system for the main actors in the fisheries sector and support pilot or existing social and solidarity projects for women, young entrepreneurs and agricultural unions.
The PROGEPECT project will involve an exchange of expertise with the Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ), notably on artificial reefs.
The Deymine programme is consistent with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the national strategy to develop the agriculture and fisheries sector by 2030.
Source: TAP News Agency