Expert Diaspora Recruited to Enhance Algeria's Energy Sector

Algeria has initiated a comprehensive strategy to actively engage its scientific diaspora in tackling the nation's energy and water challenges. This strategic direction, aligned with the directives of the President of the Republic, began with a high-level meeting in Algiers on October 31, 2026. Mohamed Arkab, the Minister of Hydrocarbons, received Professor Elias Zerhouni, Coordinator of the Higher Council for the National Scientific Community Abroad, along with Professor Mustapha Khiati, Secretary General of the scientific body, and senior ministerial officials. The goal is to transform national competencies residing abroad into a driving force for technological sovereignty, economic development, and industrial independence.

A primary focus of this initiative is the profound modernization of the entire oil and gas value chain through enhanced research and development. The scientific elite from the diaspora is expected to contribute advanced solutions, particularly in drastically reducing the hydrocarbon sector's carbon footprint. A critical priority involves mastering and eliminating fugitive methane emissions, a technical challenge vital for ensuring the global competitiveness of Algerian gas. This also includes the development and adoption of advanced industrial technologies throughout the industry.

Beyond hydrocarbons, the expertise of the diaspora will be applied to the critical area of seawater desalination, aiming to integrate advanced technologies for optimized energy yields and sustainable water supply. The ambition extends to rapidly increasing the national integration rate within major structuring projects. By connecting the international scientific networks of the diaspora with local industrial capabilities, Algeria seeks to domestically manufacture high-precision industrial equipment that has historically been imported. This effective transfer of low-carbon know-how and technologies is designed to sustainably valorize the country's fossil resources while building robust industrial autonomy, driven by national competencies both at home and abroad.