Algiers, October 27, 2025 – The Algerian Sahara holds immense potential for the future of agriculture, according to Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Yassine Walid. Speaking at a press conference today, Minister Walid highlighted the vast untapped resources of the southern regions, emphasizing the government’s commitment to developing its agricultural capacity.
Addressing reporters on the sidelines of the National Conference for the Modernization of Agriculture held at the Abdelatif Rahal International Conference Center in Algiers, Minister Walid stated that approximately one million hectares of Saharan land are suitable for agricultural exploitation. He noted that 300,000 hectares have already been allocated for strategic investments in the sector.
“The Sahara is the future,” the Minister declared, citing the region’s abundant groundwater reserves, which he described as among the largest in the world, estimated by experts at 60,000 billion cubic meters. He emphasized the high productivity achievable in these southern regions, making them ideal for agricultural development.
Minister Walid further elaborated on the exceptional agricultural yields observed in the southern provinces, referencing studies indicating grain production exceeding 50 quintals per hectare. This impressive output, he asserted, unlocks significant agricultural opportunities for Algeria and paves the way for achieving the nation’s food security objectives. The government is prioritizing investments and initiatives to capitalize on this potential and transform the Sahara into a major agricultural hub.
The Minister’s statements underscore the government’s strategic focus on diversifying the Algerian economy and reducing its reliance on hydrocarbons by harnessing the agricultural potential of its southern territories.
