Algeria Triumphs in Hosting International Events, Bolsters Food Defense Mechanism for Distinguished Guests

BY: Hana Saada

 

Algiers- Algeria, a nation with a rich and profound history, has once again proven its significance on the global stage through a remarkable series of successful international demonstrations. These events showcased Algeria’s unwavering determination to embrace and excel at hosting such gatherings. A pivotal factor that contributed to the resounding success of these demonstrations was the implementation of a robust food defense mechanism. By prioritizing the safety and well-being of its guests, Algeria ensured an optimal reception for dignitaries and visitors alike, cementing its reputation as a responsible and capable host. This feat not only highlighted the country’s readiness to tackle challenges head-on but also underscored its commitment to becoming a pivotal player in the international community.

The 15th edition of the Arab Sports Games held in Algeria was a milestone event, attracting 22 Arab countries and hosting 3,000 athletes and technicians from various disciplines. The cities of Algiers, Oran, Constantine, Annaba, and Tipaza warmly welcomed the participants. As we know, the significance of international events and gatherings cannot be underestimated, as they demand stringent adherence to food safety standards to ensure the well-being of participants and the credibility of the event. Algeria exemplified its commitment to this crucial aspect by meticulously preparing meals, incorporating strict quality and hygiene measures. To achieve this, mixed teams of food defense mechanisms were diligently deployed to oversee the entire process, ensuring that every aspect of food preparation complied with the highest safety protocols. Such dedicated efforts not only showcase Algeria’s dedication to hosting successful international gatherings, but also set a commendable example for others to follow in upholding the paramount importance of food safety.

In the pursuit of safeguarding the welfare and security of all participants in events, Dr. Zalaqi Djamel, a researcher at the Institute for Comprehensive Strategic Studies, has unveiled a resolute and comprehensive strategy centered around food defense. This innovative approach sought to establish a robust mechanism to shield attendees from any potential threats pertaining to nutrition. As the world has witnessed the alarming evolution of multifaceted dangers, some even posing risks to the seamless conduct of such events, Dr. Zalaqi emphasized the imperative of securing the physical safety of participants. The strategy devised aimed to thwart any malicious intent that might seek to disrupt the harmony of an event through tampering with food and refreshments.

 

Colonel Head of the Central Cell of Food Defense, Department of Organization and Supply of the People’s National Army Staff, highlighted the meticulous planning involved in securing the sports event. A central cell, along with three regional cells, was created to ensure strict monitoring and control over the preparation, storage, and consumption of meals. The focus was on preventing the risks associated with spoiled or contaminated food, be it naturally or deliberately introduced.

He stated, “On the occasion of Algeria’s organization of the 15th edition of the Arab Sports Games for the year 2023, the Ministry of National Defense played a crucial role in ensuring the security of this sporting event, with a particular focus on feeding the participating delegations. The Food Defense Mechanism was meticulously supervised through a central cell, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Department of Organization and Supply of the Staff of the People’s National Army. Additionally, three regional cells were established in the first, second, and fifth military regions to enhance efficiency. The mechanism incorporates existing protocols for food safety and hygiene, with the ultimate objective of preventing risks and threats associated with the consumption of spoiled or contaminated food, whether by natural or deliberate means. By safeguarding the food chain against the dangers posed by malicious, criminal, or terrorist activities, we effectively controlled access points, monitored individuals, and managed locations involved in the preparation, storage, and consumption of meals.”

In this momentous Arab event, 22 Arab countries came together with a spirit of camaraderie and competition, showcasing the region’s rich diversity and talent. With 3,000 skilled athletes and technicians from various disciplines, the cities of Algiers, Oran, Constantine, Annaba, and Tipaza eagerly awaited the arrival of their guests. To ensure the seamless organization and hospitality of such a grand gathering, regional cells for the Food Defense Mechanism were strategically formed, drawing members from different ministerial sectors. These dedicated teams were dispersed throughout all accommodation sites and hotels designated to host the participating sports delegations, ensuring their comfort and well-being throughout the event.

With a robust and integrated approach, the regional cells united diverse sectors and security forces into mixed teams, working tirelessly to fortify the food chain against any malevolent or criminal threats. From the shelter sites to the arenas of competitions and sports training, every aspect of Algeria’s hospitality was fortified, ensuring the well-being and safety of all guests. This formidable endeavor not only ensured a good stay but also exemplified Algeria’s dedication to providing the best conditions for its people and visitors alike.

The lieutenant colonel, head of the regional cell for the food defense of the 1st Military Region confidently declared, “The regional cell of the food defense mechanism of the 1st Military Region follows up on mixed teams, formed from various sectors and security wires. These mixed teams secure and protect the food chain from all malicious and criminal actions at the level of all shelter sites and the sites of competitions and sports training, and this is to ensure a good stay in the best conditions for the guests of Algeria.”

 

For his part, Lieutenant Colonel, Head of the Regional Cell for Food Defense, Fifth Military Region, expressed a resolute commitment to providing the best care for Algeria’s esteemed guests from the Arab brothers. “In order to optimally provide for the guests of Algeria from the Arab brothers,” he stated, “the regional cell of the Fifth Military Region of the Food Defense Mechanism was vigilant to enhance strict monitoring of everything related to feeding the participating delegations, especially since this event coincided with a severe heat wave. This situation has forced us to redouble our efforts and deal cautiously with foodstuffs, particularly perishable foods. Accordingly, I have given strict instructions to the mixed teams responsible for the food defense mechanism at all hotel establishments receiving delegations in the cities of Constantine and Annaba. Our main goal was to prevent any health and nutritional problems from occurring, ensuring the well-being and safety of our distinguished visitors.”

 

In addition, the lieutenant colonel in the regional food defense cell of the 2nd Military Region exemplified a profound commitment to ensuring the nutritional safety of sports delegations during these games. With an unwavering dedication to upholding hygiene standards and health safety throughout the food chain, the mixed team demonstrated their vigilance from the moment commodities are received, subjecting them to meticulous scrutiny by a quality and food safety standards committee. Utmost care was taken in the storage of foodstuffs, maintaining optimal preservation in specialized shops and cold rooms. To prevent any risk of contamination, strict adherence to hygiene conditions was observed. Additionally, the distribution of meals to delegations was closely supervised, with continuous monitoring and follow-up by the Food Defense Committee. The athletes’ welfare remained paramount, as they were provided with thoughtful, healthy meals tailored to align perfectly with the unique requirements of their diets. Such conscientious efforts undoubtedly reflected the mixed team’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of the athletes and their culinary needs throughout the event.

   

 

In her esteemed role as the chief veterinary inspector of the Directorate of Agricultural Services of Oran Province, Karoumi Touati bears a solemn responsibility to safeguard public health through the rigorous regulation of animal-derived food products. With unwavering dedication, her mission revolved around the meticulous supervision of foodstuffs such as meat, milk, and eggs, ensuring strict control over their transportation, preservation, and storage. Particularly critical was the stringent scrutiny when these items were received, as it served as the foremost line of defense in guaranteeing the health and safety of these essential materials before they underwent the transformation into meals.

“Ensuring the integrity of our food supply chain is our utmost priority,” emphasized Mrs. Nasser Salima, Chief Investigator for the Prevention of Fraud at the Directorate of Trade in Oran Province. With conviction in her voice, she continued, “As a member of the Food Defense Mechanism, and on this international sporting occasion, our role is to ensure the compliance of all products in terms of labeling and respect for preservation, storage, and transport conditions from the point of receipt. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of food safety and quality, safeguarding the health and trust of our guests.”

The quality control of water during this sporting event received paramount attention, with the Food Defense Mechanism’s technical teams actively and continuously present in the field. Their proactive approach involved regular sampling of the athletes drinking water and conducting preliminary field analyses to safeguard the athletes’ well-being. Recognizing water as a vital substance susceptible to poisoning or pollution, meticulous monitoring was crucial to preventing any health risks or disruptions to the smooth conduct of the games. The dedication to ensuring pristine water quality demonstrated the organizers’ unwavering commitment to prioritizing the athletes’ safety and the overall success of the event.

In this vein, the Lieutenant Colonel, who serves as the head of the Environment Department at the central laboratory in the 1st Military Region, noted, “Among the main tasks of the Food Defense Mechanism was the qualitative monitoring of water consumption.” His tone was serious as he emphasized the importance of security measures. “This team was keen to ensure that the water storage sources are tightly closed under the camera monitoring system,” he continued, “in order to avoid any contamination and to prevent any criminal act that may lead to water poisoning.” His words underscored the critical role they played in safeguarding the water supply from potential threats.

On another level, the daily sampling of the athletes’ meals, including the establishment of a meticulously preserved control plate lasting 72 hours, exemplified the paramount commitment to safety and well-being within the sports community. This precautionary measure was undertaken to swiftly identify and address any potential instances of poisoning or complications that might arise. By maintaining this reliable reference point, authorities could respond promptly and effectively, ensuring the athletes’ health and enabling them to focus wholeheartedly on their athletic pursuits without undue concern.

 

“As the chief police officer in the Department of Food Security and Environment, serving as the Regional Inspector of the Scientific Police in Oran, our primary responsibilities were both vital and diverse. Our foremost mission revolved around ensuring strict adherence to international standards within collective kitchens and restaurants. This included guaranteeing the utmost hygiene and safety of the kitchen environment as well as the proper handling and storage of foodstuffs before, during, and after meal preparation. Our paramount concern was to safeguard the health of all participants by protecting the meals provided from any potential threats. To maintain high standards, we diligently monitored the cleanliness of cooks and assistants, assessing their attire and physical well-being and requiring medical certifications to validate their competence within the kitchen. In cases of mass food poisoning, we act swiftly by conducting thorough bacteriological and physiochemical analyses on the implicated dishes, leaving no room for ambiguity in our pursuit of public safety and health.”

Similar to the various international events that were organized in Algeria, the authorities took significant measures to prioritize the health and safety of all guests. To achieve this, they mobilized both material and human resources, including laboratories that were put at maximum readiness. These facilities played a crucial role in providing comprehensive support and technical assistance by conducting essential analyses of all consumed foodstuffs and meals. By ensuring the quality and safety of the food, the Algerian authorities aimed to create a secure and enjoyable environment for everyone attending the events.

The involvement of the National Institute of Criminal Evidence and Criminology of the National Gendarmerie further bolstered the food defense mechanisms, offering technical support and expertise whenever needed. A mobile laboratory was deployed for field intervention to address any contingencies.

Lieutenant Colonel, the Head of the Biological Contaminants Laboratory at the National Institute of Criminal Evidence and Criminology of the National Gendarmerie, expressed the institute’s unwavering commitment to ensuring food defense mechanisms were in place. The institute has taken a proactive stance in this regard, establishing a dedicated team of experts and specialists from diverse disciplines to be ready for any potential threats. With a focus on preparedness, the team stood ready to provide crucial technical support whenever necessary, reinforcing the nation’s efforts to protect its guests and maintain the integrity of its food supply chain.

The lieutenant colonel, as the head of the subsistence department and the central laboratory in the first military region, has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of Algeria’s guests. With great responsibility, he oversaw the meticulous execution of numerous microbiological analyses on control meals, leaving no room for compromise in verifying their safety. Such dedication to preserving the health of the people exemplified his exceptional leadership and professionalism. Moreover, the inclusion of a mobile laboratory for field interventions further underscored their foresight and preparedness to tackle any unforeseen circumstances.

 

Restaurants were continuously monitored to detect any suspicious behavior that might compromise the integrity of the event. The Mixed Division of Food Defense at the 1st Military Region spearheaded a comprehensive follow-up system, backed by video surveillance, ensuring the safety and smooth functioning of the food chain at all delegation sites, as asserted by the head of the Mixed Division.

Similarly,  Mr. Ahmed Salmi, Secretary-General of the High Organizing Committee for Arab Sports Games 2023, noted that a momentous milestone was reached as over 250,000 meals were served during the event without a single instance of food poisoning. This incredible achievement stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication and diligence of everyone involved. Dr. Choubtar Nawal, Head of the Medical and Anti-Doping Committee, on her part, praised the remarkable strides taken to ensure food safety, highlighting the impeccable medical successes achieved throughout the edition. This feat would not have been possible without the tireless and coordinated efforts of the teams operating under the Ministry of National Defense, who harmoniously collaborated with the National Games Committee. The resounding success of this edition exemplifies the unwavering commitment to responsibility displayed by all participants and volunteers, who selflessly elevate the reputation of their beloved homeland through their exceptional professionalism and unwavering dedication.

Algeria’ successful hosting of the 15th Arab Sports Games showcased not only its return to prestigious international status but also its unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its guests. The food defense mechanism implemented during the event exemplified Algeria’s determination to host international demonstrations while maintaining the highest standards of hospitality, organization, and security. The country’s deep history as the land of martyrs, generosity, and victory has found new relevance in the modern world as Algeria continues to shine on the global stage.