Siliana: Cherries, apples, and figs are promising sectors facing climate risks

Tunisia's Siliana governorate stands out for its diverse agricultural output, cultivating approximately 60,000 tons of fruit annually across 8,000 hectares of orchards. Noura Zouari, head of the plant production division at the regional agricultural development commission (CRDA), highlighted Siliana's national leadership in pomegranate production, yielding 6,000 tons this season from over 700 hectares. This represents more than 90% of the country's total pomegranate output, though it marks a slight decrease from the previous season's 8,000 tons, contributing to a price increase.

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The governorate produces about 60,000 tons of fruits per year on 8,000 hectares of fruit trees.

The pomegranate sector receives focused attention to enhance its entire value chain, from cultivation to marketing. Initiatives include organizing a pomegranate festival in Siliana, which has boosted the sector's economic, social, and cultural significance. Apple production also holds considerable economic and social importance in the region, benefiting from high-altitude climatic conditions that ensure stable yields. This season's preliminary apple production is estimated at 31,000 tons from 2,115 hectares.

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The governorate ranks first nationally in pomegranate production, with 6,000 tons for the current season on an area exceeding 700 hectares, or more than 90% of national production.

Siliana is also recognized for its fig production, particularly the Zaïdi variety, considered among the best nationally. Fig plantations, covering 900 hectares, are concentrated around the mountain lakes of Kesra and Siliana Sud. The current season's fig harvest is projected at around 2,800 tons. The fig sector actively involves women's groups, stimulating the local economy through the processing of some produce into jam or dried figs, known as "chriha."

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The sector benefits from particular attention aimed at developing its entire value chain, from production to marketing, in coordination with all stakeholders, notably through the organization of a pomegranate festival in Siliana.

Despite the success of these fruit sectors, Zouari expressed concern over their vulnerability to climate change. She warned that rising temperatures are degrading product quality, particularly affecting the apple harvest. This environmental challenge poses a significant risk to the sustainability of Siliana's key agricultural industries.

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These three sectors remain vulnerable to climate change, regretting Zouari, warning about the rise in temperatures that has degraded the quality of products, particularly in the apple sector.