In a significant move to support environmental conservation in Algeria, the Mediterranean Wetlands Observatory (MWO) is collaborating with the Algerian General Directorate of Forestry (DGF) to implement the 2016-2030 Action Plan of the National Wetlands Strategy. Anis Guelmami, the MWO coordinator and TdV representative, led a pivotal workshop with over 30 participants from Algeria's National Wetlands Committee. This workshop focused on evaluating the progress of the Action Plan's implementation and establishing a roadmap for upcoming priority actions.
Among the key advancements is the integration of ecosystem-based management into forestry law, but further efforts are needed, particularly in crafting specific regulations for wetlands conservation and sustainable use. The creation of a National Wetlands Observatory is underway, with plans to set its objectives, governance structure, and monitoring parameters.
As part of the implementation of the National Wetlands Strategy in Algeria, the challenges of sharing water resources between the socio-economic sectors and the needs of natural ecosystems are proving to be central. The OurMED project, through the tools and services it will provide, could therefore help the national authorities in Algeria to better prioritise actions for the conservation and/or restoration of wetlands, as a Nature-based Solution for improving the water-storage capacity of the basins. In addition, this workshop with the National Wetlands Committee was also an opportunity to discuss issues related to the management of transboundary water resources, given that one of the 7 demo basins in the OurMED project, the Medjerda, is shared between Algeria and Tunisia.
Priority actions also include developing Management Plans for designated Ramsar sites currently lacking them and progressing with the National Inventory of Wetlands through the EO4WI project, a collaboration with various international partners.
However, challenges persist. Many of Algeria's iconic wetlands face threats from overexploitation, habitat loss, pollution, and climate change-induced droughts. These factors significantly endanger these ecosystems, highlighting the urgency of intensified conservation efforts. The Tour du Valat, through the MWO, reaffirms its commitment to supporting Algeria in these endeavors.
