Pr. Arezki Mekliche: “Achieving Cereal Self-Sufficiency is Attainable with the Right Will and Strategic Measures”

BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria | October 2nd, 2024 — During an appearance on Algerian Radio’s Channel 3, Professor Arezki Mekliche, a leading figure in agronomy at the National Higher School of Agronomy (ENSA), firmly stated that Algeria’s goal of achieving self-sufficiency in cereal production is well within reach, provided there is both the will and the strategic foresight to support it. “Self-sufficiency is achievable, as long as we have the determination,” the professor declared, underscoring that merely expanding arable land is not enough. Instead, science must be at the forefront, guiding the choice of cultivable varieties and modern irrigation techniques to counter the harsh climate challenges facing the country’s agricultural sector.

In his remarks during the official launch of the 2024 “Ploughing and Sowing” season, Mekliche outlined the four essential pillars necessary for achieving this ambitious goal: expanding irrigated land, adopting rational irrigation practices, enhancing productivity, and adapting crops to local microsystems. These objectives, he emphasized, are critical in Algeria’s pursuit of sustainable food security. He also stressed the importance of strictly following the technical guidelines set by the National Technical Committee, of which he is a key member.

A Blueprint for Agricultural Transformation

Expounding on the agenda of the National Technical Committee, Mekliche highlighted that some farmers, already equipped with advanced machinery such as high-powered tractors, have completed ploughing and are ready to begin sowing in various parts of the country without having to wait for rainfall. This proactive approach, he argues, should be the model for success this season. To ensure a robust agricultural output, he urged farmers to form cooperatives and organize themselves effectively to advance without depending entirely on unpredictable weather patterns.

He noted that water availability varies across regions and crop types, stressing that certain forage crops like oats, barley, and triticale—ideal for biomass production—should be prioritized as they are better suited to the local climate and require rains in April and May. These crops, according to Mekliche, represent an essential first step toward a broader strategy of achieving self-sufficiency in cereals.

The professor also lauded the government’s commitment to the cultivation of barley, a cereal that is less demanding in terms of water and soil quality. The authorities have dedicated one million hectares to barley cultivation. Mekliche pointed out the irony in Algeria’s failure to achieve self-sufficiency in such a simple crop, stating, “With our climate and soil, there is no reason why Algeria should ever lack barley.”

The Critical Role of Strategic Mapping and Scientific Precision

Mekliche went on to address one of the most pressing challenges facing Algeria’s cereal production: the failure to implement a clear, scientifically informed roadmap for crop cultivation. He emphasized that the real challenge for the authorities is to ensure that farmers respect the specificities of the microsystems in which they are working. “Farmers must not plant anything anywhere,” he cautioned, advising against planting water-intensive wheat in regions better suited to barley due to low rainfall.

“Adherence to the technical itinerary laid out by the committee is crucial,” Mekliche stressed. He further emphasized the need to supplement irrigation by harnessing purified water and using reservoirs, as well as employing pivot irrigation systems, even on small plots of land, to conserve water efficiently.

Building Toward a Sustainable Future

With 3.7 million hectares of land set to be cultivated this season, an increase from previous years, Algeria is laying the groundwork for a potential breakthrough in agricultural production. The country is on track to produce 1.5 million tonnes of durum wheat by 2025, a key milestone in the pursuit of cereal self-sufficiency. To this end, the Algerian government has provided farmers with substantial resources, including seeds, fertilizers, and extensive logistical support.

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