Algeria revives Green Dam project
A long-standing initiative in Algeria, the Green Dam project, has evolved from a government-led effort into a national movement aimed at combating desertification and protecting ecosystems amid increasing climate change challenges. Established in the 1970s, the project was designed to plant millions of trees to halt the northward spread of the Sahara Desert. Farmers like Alawi Moumen, who have witnessed the desert encroach upon their lands, highlight the urgency of this initiative.
The Algerian government has implemented strategic measures over the years, repurposing military units into reforestation brigades. President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has actively participated by planting saplings and advocating for advanced monitoring systems that integrate satellite data with ground sensors to track the growth of trees. This technological advancement has led to the restoration of up to 300,000 hectares of previously degraded land, fostering thriving ecosystems.
Experts emphasize the importance of consistency for long-term success, noting that the Green Dam's true innovation lies in its transformation into a national movement. Educational programs now teach students about desertification alongside traditional subjects, while university graduates employ artificial intelligence to optimize planting strategies. The project aims to expand forest cover to 4.7 million hectares, with a goal of reforesting at least 400,000 hectares by 2026.
The Green Dam, initiated in the 1960s, originally sought to create a forested barrier against the Sahara's expansion. Over time, it has broadened its objectives to include biodiversity enhancement, water management, and rural development. Recently, the initiative has gained renewed support, mobilizing government agencies, local communities, and environmental organizations to rehabilitate degraded areas and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
