Desertification risk in Algeria threatens agricultural sector

Algeria is stepping up its anti-desertification efforts in the south of the country according to Said Barkat, minister of agriculture and rural development, as part of the National Plan for Agricultural and Rural Development. 

There is a real risk of increasing desertification in Algeria in 2005, especially in the Sahel area. 3.5 million hectares in the country have been affected.  

This is part of an effort extending over 28 provinces in a bid to protect the extremely valuable agricultural industry in the south. The government is already distributing free bio-degradable pesticides. 

An estimated US$ 100 million is needed in the struggle while only just over US$ 40 million has been allocated or promised. (menareport.com)

© 2004 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)