Problem

Urban and peri-urban forests (UPF) in Tunisia are crucial for mitigating climate change effects, reducing carbon emissions, and improving urban air quality. However, these forests face threats from urbanisation, deforestation, illegal settlements, and ineffective legal protections. Tunisia’s urbanisation rate of 67.8% has led to dense urban agglomerations and conflicts over forest lands, exacerbated by state land acquisition and unclear tenure systems. Illegal housing, waste dumping, and fires further degrade these green spaces. 

The Sidi Amor peri-urban forest, a 10.3 km² area near Tunisia, has suffered from soil erosion, deforestation, quarrying, and frequent fires, particularly after Tunisia’s 2011 revolution. Building density in the area increased dramatically, from 30 buildings per hectare in 2004 to 50 per hectare in 2021. These challenges are intensified by climate change and overexploitation of forest resources, jeopardising the sustainability of this vital ecosystem.

Responses

The GDA (Groupement de Développement Agricole/Agricultural Development Group) Sidi Amor, an NGO established in 2010, works to restore and preserve the Sidi Amor peri-urban forest. Collaborating with local communities, it promotes agroforestry, landscape restoration, and sustainable resource use including soil stabilisation using local quarry waste, tree planting, and reforestation with native medicinal plants. The project also established an eco-village to showcase and sell local crafts, foods, and products made from forest resources, while hosting training on eco-construction and agriculture.

By 2023, the initiative has reportedly created employment for local residents, particularly youth and women, through eco-friendly construction, agriculture, and crafts. Training workshops provide wastewater treatment, organic farming, and sustainable forestry skills. Environmental benefits include reduced soil erosion, restored ecosystems, composting, and wastewater treatment that irrigates 3,200 hectares of farmland. The expanded forest cover supports biodiversity and carbon sequestration, while treated waste water and compost sustain agriculture. The Sidi Amor project has ultimately sought to transform the forest into a hub of socioeconomic activity, contributing to sustainable urban development and community resilience.

Find out more: Infrahub Africa, UN FAO