40.000 hectares de récoltes céréalières assurés contre les incendies
Summary of Crop Fire Insurance in Bouira
In Bouira, 40,000 hectares of cereal crops have been insured against fires as the grain harvesting season begins, coinciding with a period of intense heat. This information was provided by Mohamed Bechour, the director of the Regional Agricultural Mutuality Fund (CRMA) of Bouira. With 73,000 hectares planted in the region, the rate of farmers securing fire insurance has notably increased compared to last year, reflecting a growing awareness of risks among cereal growers.
To incentivize farmers, the CRMA is offering a 50% discount on all harvest insurance against fire, hail, and floods, and they have extended the insurance deadlines. A recent awareness campaign was conducted in cooperation with various local agencies, emphasizing the importance of preventing crop fires. The campaign covered multiple communes, including El Hachimia, Ain Bessam, Haizer, and El Asnam.
In 2024, the CRMA has compensated farmers with approximately 25 million DA for damages resulting from crop fires. Farmers are becoming more cognizant of potential fire hazards during the summer and harvesting season. CRMA experts, along with representatives from the Agricultural Technical Institute (ITGC) and the Equipment Production Company (PMATI), have been engaging with farmers to share preventive measures and best practices for safeguarding their crops.
However, Bechour expressed concern that 70% of the fires recorded in Bouira this year stemmed from sparks emitted by agricultural machinery, particularly combines, urging farmers to maintain and monitor their equipment effectively. Other potential causes of crop fires include electrical lines that cross through grain fields.
To summarize, there is a concerted effort in Bouira to enhance fire safety through awareness initiatives and financial incentives, aimed at reducing crop losses and protecting farmers’ livelihoods.
