The launch event featured high level officials, including Mr Heykel Helchef, Director of the Cabinet of the Minister of Agriculture, Water Resources and Fisheries in Tunisia, His Excellency Mr Takeshi Osuga, Ambassador Extraordinary of Japan to Tunisia, Mr Lifeng Li, Director of the Land and Water Division at FAO, and Mr Mohamed Amrani, Senior Policy Officer and representing FAO's country office in Tunisia. The workshop laid the groundwork for collaboration and effective implementation of the project in Tunisia, shaping the SoilFER National Work Plan.

Strengthening soil data

Mr Ezzeddine Ben Cheikh, a representative of the Ministry of Agriculture, Water Resources and Fisheries of Tunisia stressed the expected project contributions in advancing agriculture in Tunisia by improving soil management and crop selections. He also hailed the initiative role in promoting resilient soil management practices, focusing on crop varieties adapted to local conditions and the enhancement of traditional crops.

The SoilFER project will provide up-to-date and accurate soil data crucial for informed decision-making. The generated data will be combined with decision-making tools such as detailed soil maps and user-friendly applications designed to help farmers and the government to optimize agricultural productivity and sustainability.

Enhancing decision-making

"The launch of the SoilFER project is a significant milestone in Tunisia's journey towards more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable agriculture” said Mr. Lifeng Li, Director of FAO's Land and Water Division. “It aims to bridge the gap in soil information and management by equipping Tunisia with advanced soil mapping tools, improved laboratory capacity and improved decision-making tools on fertilization and sustainable soil management practices, as well as crop suitability".

A core component of the project is the creation of national soil maps, highlighting soil fertility and properties such as soil organic carbon (SOC), pH, texture, bulk density and other relevant characteristics, stated Mr Mahmoud Abdelfattah, the SoilFER Project Manager.

Field visits and working meetings

The first field visit was organized at the National Institute of Field Crops (NGC), where Mr. Anis Bouselmi, the Director of Studies and Technology Transfer, introduced the research of the NGC and showed the delegation the two field experiment zones on soil management.

Several high-level meetings took place with partners, including the Olive Tree Institute, the Technical Centre for Organic Agriculture, the National Institute for Field Crops, the National Centre for Nuclear Science and Technology, and representatives from the private sector, and the National Directorate for Water and Soil Conservation. These discussions aimed to foster collaboration and align efforts among all stakeholders involved in the project.

FAO expert, Mr Yuxin Tong stated that SoilFER project adopts a holistic approach that combines four major components: 1) field soil sampling, 2) advanced laboratory analysis technologies, 3) comprehensive soil information and decision support tools, and 4) precise fertilizer recommendations tailored for different crops and soil management solutions.

The Olive Tree Institute showcased the fertilization techniques adapted to different regions of Tunisia, sharing its valuable experience with farmers on soil sustainable practices and methods. This presentation aimed to enhance farmers' understanding of effective fertilization strategies and promote sustainable soil management practices tailored to local conditions.

The National Centre for Nuclear Science and Technology provided an overview of its analytical techniques, and the National Directorate for Water and Soil Conservation proposed several priorities areas for water and soil conservation efforts.

Photogallery: https://www.flickr.com/photos/landandwater/albums/72177720323622652/