HIBAPRESS – Ahmed Al-Musaed
The Eastern region, especially Berkane province, has witnessed significant rainfall, restoring optimism to farmers and economic actors in the area. This rain was not just a passing shower, but a strong boost for the current agricultural season, which necessitated the taking of proactive measures to manage water surplus to ensure the continuity of production.
Rainfall measurements as of February 4th of this year recorded about 152 mm, achieving a qualitative leap compared to last year, where rainfall did not exceed 62 mm, i.e., with a noticeable improvement of 143%; This increase has positively reflected on improving the efficiency of agricultural production; the quality and size of fruits and their juice percentage; and reviving the water table and raising the dam’s capacity (some of which reached a filling rate of 100%).
In light of this water abundance, the Regional Office for Agricultural Investment, in coordination with the Water Basin Agency, decided to schedule an exceptional irrigation cycle. This cycle aims to fill farmers' tanks to ensure a sufficient water stock for the coming seasons; and to irrigate the crops of farmers who desire this water, especially those who do not have private tanks.
Citrus cultivation is considered the beating heart of agriculture in Berkane province, extending over an area of about 19,000 hectares, which represents more than 80% of the area cultivated with citrus fruits in the Eastern region, and the “Berkane Clementine” product, which has a protected geographical indicator, comes as a real development lever in the region. Preliminary data indicate expectations of production exceeding 400,000 tons this season, thanks to the doubling of rainfall compared to last year.
The positive impact was not limited to citrus fruits only, but included various crops, grains and legumes: which benefited greatly from the regularity of rainfall; vegetables: such as potatoes and peas, where harvesting operations began with high efficiency; fruit trees: which herald an excellent growing season.
"Thank God, the dams are full and the water table is improving. This year will be a year of goodness and blessing for the people of Berkane, and everyone is at the peak of optimism" (testimonies from farmers in the region).
In conclusion, this season's rains represent more than just a water resource; It is a message of hope for rational and sustainable water management, as a strategic option to ensure the stability of agriculture in the region and achieve sustainable development.
