une délégation nigériane s’enquiert de l’expérience algérienne en matière d’économie bleue
Summary of the Visit by the Nigerien Delegation to ENSSMAL
On Tuesday, a delegation from the Nigerien Institute of Political and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) visited Algeria’s National Superior School of Marine Sciences and Coastal Development (ENSSMAL). This visit aimed to explore Algeria’s expertise in the blue economy, with a focus on leveraging national skills and strengthening bilateral cooperation in this crucial sector.
The delegation’s trip commenced on Monday and includes visits to various regions across Algeria, targeting multiple economic, tourist, maritime, religious, and archaeological sites, as well as training institutes and research centers.
During their visit to ENSSMAL, a conference titled "The Blue Economy and Sustainable Development" was organized. Officials from the school detailed Algeria’s commitment to this essential field and discussed various programs and achievements aimed at facilitating sustainable development. The programs presented cover diverse sectors dedicated to enhancing the blue economy, a priority for Algeria.
Key Insights from the Conference
Samir Grimes, the head of the research laboratory at ENSSMAL, highlighted that Algeria was one of the first countries in Africa and the Euro-Mediterranean region to develop a national strategy for the blue economy, endorsed by an intersectoral committee in 2021. He emphasized the relevance of this sector in promoting sustainable development.
Grimes also discussed President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s emergency program concerning seawater desalination, marking a significant aspect of the blue economy. Additionally, he mentioned initiatives for aquaculture in coastal regions and the development of shipbuilding and repair facilities as vital components that provide growth opportunities in this promising economy. Notably, around 40 startups have launched successful projects in the blue economy, particularly those focused on marine waste valorization.
Linda Boutekrabt, the school’s director, elaborated on Algeria’s achievements within the National Spatial Planning and Coastal Development Plan (PNATL) and activities supporting the blue economy. She emphasized the growing interest among startups in entering this field and introduced the school’s digital library, which supports remote access to resources, maps, and archives for students and researchers.
Chanez Zouadi, director of the Blue Economy, Fishing, and Aquaculture program at the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Fishing, also contributed during the conference. She outlined Algeria’s blue economy program, which focuses on strengthening artisanal fishing, resources management, and improving working conditions for fishermen. Zouadi underscored the vital role of digitization in gathering accurate statistics that will guide strategic planning.
Highlights of the Conference
The conference featured presentations on sustainable development goals, Sonatrach’s forestry project aimed at reducing carbon emissions, and insights into the Green Dam project. Additionally, videos showcasing a strategic vision for the development and modernization of the capital were presented.
ENSSMAL officials provided insights into Algeria’s blue economy experiences, particularly regarding innovative and emerging activities in the domain. The Nigerien delegation also explored a startup exhibition and the digital library, receiving explanations about the available materials and archives.
In closing remarks, Suleiman Muhammad Kabir, head of the Nigerien delegation, expressed gratitude for the conference, which offered valuable insights into Algeria’s experiences and expertise. He stressed the need for enhanced cooperation between the Nigerien and Algerian institutes of strategic studies.
This meeting marks a pivotal step in fostering collaboration between Algeria and Niger in the field of blue economy, emphasizing shared knowledge, sustainable practices, and strategic partnerships that could benefit both nations in developing their maritime resources efficiently. The visit not only reinforced diplomatic relations but also showcased Algeria’s commitment to advancing its blue economy initiatives, ensuring that both countries can benefit from expertise in sustainable practices and technological advancement in marine and coastal management.
