Tunis: The Government of Tunisia, in partnership with the African Development Bank Group, has unveiled a significant $24 million initiative aimed at restoring degraded forest landscapes and enhancing climate resilience in rural ecosystems.
According to Emirates News Agency, the Agroforestry and Degraded Forest Landscape Restoration Project (PARFD) was officially launched in Tunis. The project, valued at approximately $23.72 million (over 73 million Tunisian dinars), receives funding from the African Development Bank through the Climate Investment Funds' Strategic Climate Fund, contributing $17 million. The Tunisian Government is providing $6.06 million, with project beneficiaries adding $660,000.
The initiative supports Tunisia's national development priorities, including the 2030 Sustainable Development Strategy and the country's pledge to reduce carbon intensity by 45% by 2030. It is anticipated to create nearly 4,500 green jobs across the governorates of B©ja, Siliana, and Bizerte.
Mohamed Naoufel Ben Haha, Director General of Forests at the Ministry of Agriculture, Water Resources and Fisheries, emphasized the project's significance in tackling climate change challenges and promoting sustainable development in rural areas.
Malinne Blomberg, African Development Bank Deputy Director General for North Africa and Country Manager for Tunisia, highlighted the project's focus on protecting natural resources through an integrated, value chain-based approach. It aims to achieve both ecological restoration and the creation of sustainable economic and social opportunities for rural communities.
The project targets the restoration or stabilization of 33,200 hectares of land, including 2,450 hectares of private land under sub-projects centered on agroforestry, forestry, and the cultivation of aromatic and medicinal plants. Furthermore, 42,000 people will receive training in sustainable land management practices. Over a 25-year period, the project is expected to enable the sequestration of 32 million tonnes of carbon, significantly contributing to Tunisia's climate objectives.