Algeria has issued a tender to purchase 1.17 million tonnes of wheat, with potential supplies from the EU, Black Sea countries, Ukraine, and Russia, according to sources like AgriCensus. This procurement comes as western Algeria faces its third consecutive year of drought, severely impacting wheat production.
Drought and Agricultural Challenges
Despite recent snowfall in central and eastern regions, western Algeria remains dry, delaying sowing and jeopardizing crops. Farmers in these regions report deteriorating soil conditions, with visible signs of erosion exacerbated by over-ploughing and lack of hedgerows to retain rainwater. A prolonged drought could lead to widespread farm bankruptcies, even as farmers benefit from deferred loan repayments.
Exploring Alternatives to Sustain Agriculture
To mitigate the water crisis, experts suggest measures such as drilling boreholes, desalinating seawater, cultivating drought-resistant crops, and utilizing treated wastewater. However, these solutions come at a high cost. For instance, desalinated water can cost €0.5/m³, significantly higher than dam water.
The Office National d'Assainissement (ONA) aims to supply treated wastewater for strategic crops like cereals and pulses, but adherence to these priorities is crucial. Farmers must also consider innovative practices like conservation agriculture and hydroponic fodder cultivation to adapt to changing conditions.
Addressing Bread Waste and Milling Losses
Efforts to reduce grain waste are underway, as milling inefficiencies and consumer habits contribute to significant losses. Researchers in Algeria are exploring alternatives like incorporating barley flour into products to reduce reliance on imported wheat. Additionally, campaigns against bread waste aim to curtail the estimated 100 million bread sticks discarded monthly during Ramadan.
Global Warming and Future Adaptations
The evolving climate demands a reevaluation of Algeria's agricultural practices, from field techniques to consumer habits. Conservation agriculture and better resource management will be critical for achieving sustainable wheat production and reducing reliance on imports.
Comments