Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya have ratified a convention aimed at establishing a consultation mechanism for managing shared groundwater in Northern Sahara, marking a significant step towards enhanced trilateral cooperation. This mechanism’s goal is to ensure equitable and sustainable management of one of the world’s largest fossil aquifers, which lies beneath the Sahara Desert and spans over a million square kilometers across these three countries.
According to the Algerian site ElMoudjahid, the freshwater reservoir in question, primarily located in Algeria (67% of the aquifer), flows into the Gulf of Gabes, with water moving from Algeria to Tunisia and Libya. This initiative aims to establish regional coordination for the sustainable management of this vital resource. The mechanism covers the “Intercalary Continental” and “Terminal Complex” aquifers, which are crucial for the region.
Objectives of the Consultation Mechanism
The primary goal of the mechanism is to ensure joint management of these water resources. Tripartite cooperation will enhance information exchange and promote joint research to better understand the issues related to water quality and quantity. This includes setting up effective monitoring systems to protect groundwater and recharge areas from pollution and other potential threats.
A Major Challenge for Cooperation
In a statement to the Algerian site ElMoudjahid, Dr. Nadjib Drioueche, a researcher in environmental science and engineering, highlighted the significance of this convention in managing this strategic water resource. According to him, this shared underground aquifer represents a major challenge. “The consultation mechanism aims to ensure equitable management of these aquifers that cover over a million square kilometers. With 67% of the aquifer in Algeria, this freshwater reservoir flows into the Gulf of Gabes, following a path from Algeria to Tunisia and Libya,” explained Drioueche. He emphasized the importance of deep regional cooperation to ensure the sustainability of this resource and protect recharge areas from any form of threat or pollution.
Strengthening Cooperation and Regional Stability
The agreement signifies a strong political will among the three countries to strengthen their cooperation and pave the way for new win-win partnership opportunities. This cooperation is seen as a significant lever for regional stability, food and water security, and the economic development of the three nations.
Upcoming Trilateral Summit and Future Prospects
A second trilateral summit is scheduled to take place in Tripoli soon, with the objective of deepening this cooperation, encouraging economic development among the three countries, and overcoming current challenges. This summit will also mark a turning point in Maghreb relations, aiming to revitalize the Maghreb Union and address the multidimensional challenges of the region.
