Algeria is accelerating its transition towards the strategic use of treated wastewater for irrigation, a move aimed at bolstering agricultural development and ensuring national food security. Lounès Bouzegza, the Minister of Hydraulics, underscored the critical importance of this initiative during a working visit to the National Office for Irrigation and Drainage (ONID).
Algeria treated wastewater irrigation
This policy aligns with the directives of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, emphasizing a comprehensive strategy to conserve conventional water resources, enhance food self-sufficiency, and guarantee the sustainable supply of drinking water to citizens. The minister's visit included a detailed briefing on ONID's operations, action plans, and ongoing projects focused on managing and operating irrigation and drainage infrastructure.
ONID officials presented their efforts to improve sector performance, modernize equipment, and elevate the quality of services provided to agricultural stakeholders. Current projects are concentrating on optimizing irrigation network management and upgrading infrastructure to support agricultural expansion. Minister Bouzegza reiterated his ministry's commitment to progressively adopting treated wastewater, utilizing tertiary treatment processes, to expand irrigated areas.
This strategic orientation is designed to alleviate pressure on traditional water sources, prioritizing them for domestic consumption. The minister highlighted this approach as a key tool for strengthening national water security and supporting agricultural development and food security objectives. Leveraging treated wastewater offers a sustainable alternative to increase irrigated land without compromising reserves for human consumption.
Furthermore, the minister stressed the need for modernizing ONID's management practices, advocating for increased digitization through enhanced information systems, improved databases, and the implementation of more effective monitoring and evaluation tools. These advancements are expected to boost operational efficiency and refine decision-making processes within the office.
Minister Bouzegza also emphasized the necessity of consistent and systematic maintenance of the sector's hydraulic structures and infrastructure, deeming it essential for their longevity, continuous availability, and improved operational output. He noted that ongoing maintenance not only ensures the continuity of public services but also protects substantial state investments in this vital sector.
Commending the dedication of ONID's staff, the minister urged them to maintain their mobilization and high sense of responsibility to achieve the sector's objectives and support national economic development ambitions. The visit is part of a series of regular meetings between the minister and entities under the Ministry of Hydraulics, aimed at closely monitoring projects, assessing performance, and expediting the implementation of programs for sustainable water resource management.
Related topics: Algeria water management, treated wastewater irrigation, agricultural development Algeria, food security Algeria, sustainable water resources, ONID projects
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