Algeria has established a landmark Algerian-Italian center of excellence dedicated to training, research, and innovation in the agricultural sector, bearing the name ‘Enrico Mattei’ — with a broad African dimension at its core.
Presidential Decree No. 26-193, signed by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune on May 12, was published in Official Gazette No. 37, formalizing the center’s creation under a memorandum of understanding signed between Algeria and Italy on July 23, 2025.
Headquartered in Sidi Bel Abbès, the public scientific and technological institution will operate under the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Fisheries. Its mandate includes deploying innovative technological solutions to boost agricultural productivity, train African youth and agricultural advisors, and advance cooperation on critical issues including water management and climate change.
The center will be governed by a 16-member board comprising Algerian and Italian representatives, alongside a scientific and pedagogical advisory council. Funding will draw from Algerian state contributions, Italian partnerships, international organizations, and institutional revenues including patents and publications.
