FAO/GLOBAL ENVIRONMENT FACILITY PROJECT DOCUMENT

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1 FAO/GLOBAL ENVIRONMENT FACILITY PROJECT DOCUMENT PROJECT TITLE: Adaptive Management and Monitoring of the Maghreb s Oases Systems PROJECT SYMBOL: Recipient Country/ies: Mauritania Morocco and Tunisia Resource Partner: Global Environment Facility (GEF) FAO project ID: GEF/LDCF/SCCF Project ID: 5798 Executing Partner(s): Réseau Associatif de Développement Durable des Oasis (RADDO), Centre national de recherche agronomique et de developpement agricole (CNARDA) in Mauritania, the Centre regional de recherche en agriculture oasienne (CRRAO) and the Centre Régional de Télédétection des États d Afrique du Nord (CRTEAN) in Tunisia, and; the Agence nationale pour le développement des zones oasiennes de l arganier (ANDZOA) in Morocco Expected EOD (starting date): 1 January 2016 Expected NTE (End date): 31 December 2018 Contribution to FAO s Strategic Framework a. Strategic objective/organizational Result: SO2:001 b. Regional Result/Priority Area: Promote Sustainable Use and Management of Natural Resources 1 GEF Focal Area/LDCF/SCCF: Land degradation GEF/LDCF/SCCF Strategic Objectives: LD-4: Adaptive Management and Learning: Increase capacity to apply adaptive management tools in SLM/SFM/INRM by GEF and UNCCD Parties. Environmental Impact Assessment Category (insert ): A B C Financing Plan: GEF/LDCF/SCCF allocation: GEFTF Co-financing: FAO (Grant) Government of Mauritania (Grant) Government of Morocco (Grant) Goverment of Tunisia (Grant) CARI 2 (for RADDO) (Grant) Subtotal Co-financing: Total Budget: USD1,726,484 USD 1,650,000 USD 700,000 USD 1,300,000 USD 1,665,000 USD 1,000,000 USD 6,315,000 USD 8,041,484 1 Based on the Priorities for FAO activities in the Africa region, Focus areas of work for and beyond, 28 th Regional Conference for Africa, Tunis, Tunisia, 2014 Source: 2 All activities implemented by the RADDO that are discussed in the ProDoc are under the coordination of the CARI 1

2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Oases ecosystems dominate zones of about 30% of the grounds that emerged along the large arid scarf that links Africa to Asia, from the Sahara to Mongolia. They are home to about 150 million people, who are custodians of a rich culture and indigenous knowledge. The oasis agro-ecosystem is a unique system based on a three-level canopy, which includes date palm (the highest tier), orchards (middle tier) and annual/perennial recurrent crops at the lowest tier. Management practices and agricultural techniques that have been implemented for millennia in the oases of the world reflect the amazing skills of local populations in using their limited environment and biodiversity in a sustainable way so as to ensure continued economic productivity. Oases ecosystems are formed by a rigorous management of rare water, land and biological resources in a strong alliance with the date palm tree. Oases are patiently worked out ecosystems by the societies that inhabit them, in the form of very complex social, ecological and economical constructions. However, as of today, in every specific oasian ecosystem, communities face mounting environmental problems: increasing water scarcity, fragile soils, water and wind erosion, pests and diseases and the degradation of agro-ecological genetic material. These are the result of the following root causes: poverty and out-migration, lack of technical means for continued production, and a lack of adequate ecosystem management-relevant information. These root causes and problems are resulting in a spiral of increasing rural poverty and acceleration of degradation of natural resources, such as pastoral genetic resources and local vegetation, with rapid outward migration of poor people, particularly young men, to urban areas and abroad 1. The replacement of customary institutions (including indigenous knowledge systems) by new forms of state organisation are leading to the progressive abandonment of traditional oases agricultural systems, and resulting in a gap in the transmission of traditional knowledge systems to younger generations and in the long term, genetic erosion and loss of oases native and wild species. The decreasing ability of decision makers and communities living in the fragile oasis ecosystems to adapt to the rapidly changing environment (including climate change and the conversion of traditional to modern oasis) causes an increasing degradation of those precious ecosystems in the project s selected countries (Mauritania, Morocco and Tunisia). In addition, there are key barriers to achieving sustainable adaptive management of oases: Lack of information and knowledge on the status and trends of the oasis ecosystems among decision makers, CSOs and local communities Lack of awareness and means to support the implementation of best agro-ecological management practices To address the issues and barriers mentioned above, the project will leverage the available opportunities of the baseline interventions in each country and regionally to foster proactive adaptive management capacity in each country. Furthermore, the project will seek to leverage opportunities for regional cooperation around shared challenges, with a view to facilitating cooperation, knowledge sharing, and economies of scale. The objective of the project is to enhance, expand and sustain the adaptive management and monitoring of the Maghreb oasis ecosystem. To achieve this objective, the project will seek to achieve the following outcomes: 1. Enhanced institutional skills and technical capacity for managing, monitoring and analysing 1 Even though no global figures exist, field case studies indicate that migration more than compensates the natural increase of population: De Haas, Hein (2001) Migration and Agricultural Transformations in the oases of Morocco and Tunisia. Utrecht: KNAG; Mohamed Aït hamza et B. El faskaoui Les oasis du Drâa au Maroc (pp 56-69) GIAHS Project (Algeria and Tunisia) 2

3 the oases production systems; 2. Local Stakeholders' capacities to disseminate knowledge and conduct trainings on best practices for SLM and better management of oases are strengthened and enhanced, and; 3. Increased awareness among policy makers, communities, associations and networks about oasis ecosystems and adaptive management tools. With relation to GEF focal areas, the project should contribute to the GEF-5 LD output 4.2 by contributing to SLM knowledge base. Overall, the project will last 3 years and will be implemented by the FAO as GEF Agency, and executed through national arrangements with the Centre National de Recherche Agronomique et de Développement Agricole (CNRADA) in Mauritania, the Centre Régional de Recherche en Agriculture Oasienne (CRRAO) in Tunisia and the Agence Nationale pour le Développment des Zones Oasiennes et de l Agranier (ANDZOA) in Morocco. For regional components, the FAO will also enter into execution agreements with regional partners such as the Centre Régional de Télédétection des États d Afrique du Nord (CRTEAN, Tunisia) and the Réseau Associatif de Développement Durable des Oasis (RADDO), according to their comparative advantage. 3

4 TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION 1 RELEVANCE (strategic fit and results orientation)... 8 SECTION 2 PROJECT FRAMEWORK AND EXPECTED RESULTS SECTION 3 FEASIBILITY (FUNDAMENTAL DIMENSIONS FOR HIGH QUALITY DELIVERY) SECTION 4 IMPLEMENTATION AND MANAGEMENT ARRANGEMENTS SECTION 5 SUSTAINABILITY OF RESULTS APPENDICES APPENDIX 1: RESULTS MATRIX APPENDIX 2: WORK PLAN (RESULTS BASED) APPENDIX 3: RESULTS BUDGET APPENDIX 4: PROCUREMENT PLAN APPENDIX 5: TERMS OF REFERENCE (TORS) APPENDIX 6: INCEPTION WORKSHOP REPORT APPENDIX 7: SURVEYS WITH STAKEHOLDERS ON OASIS MANAGEMENT TOOLS AND INDICATORS APPENDIX 8: SURVEYS RESULTS APPENDIX 9: NATIONAL CONSULTATIONS ON PROJECT COMPONENTS AND ACTIVITIES APPENDIX 10: VALIDATION WORKSHOP REPORT APPENDIX 11: ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL SCREENING.128 4

5 GLOSSARY OF ACRONYMS ABH ADA ADG AEZ AFA AFD AFESD AGPO ANDZOA AOFEP APEB ASIMA ASOC AUEA AWP/B BH CARI CBO CEO CNRADA CNRST CNTC CRDA CRRAO CRTEAN CRTS CSO CTD CTV DAT DFID DG/EGTH DG/GREE DGPA DGRE DST EP EROS ESARO EU FAO FE FFEM FPMIS GDA GEBs GEF GEFSEC GEFTF GIAHS GIH GIS GLCN GWIS GWPMed HCEFLCD Agence de Bassin Hydraulique Agence pour le Développement Agricole Advanced Database Gateway Agro-Ecological Zones Agence Foncière Agricole Agence Française de Développement Arab Fund Associations de Gestion Participative des Oasis Agence Nationale de Développement des Zones Oasiennes et de l Arganier Association Oasis Ferkla pour l Environnement et le Patrimoine Association de Protection de l Environnement de Beni Isguen Agriculture Solidaire et Intégrée au Maroc Association de Sauvegarde de l Oasis de Chenini Associations des Usagers des Eaux d Irrigation Annual Work Plan and Budget Budget Holder Centre d Actions et de Réalisations Internationales Community-Based Organizations Chief Executing Officer (GEF) Centre National de Recherche Agronomique et de Développement Agricole Centre National pour la Recherche Scientifique et Technique Centre National de la cartographie et de la Télédétection Commissariats Régionaux de Développement Agricole Centre Régional de Recherche en Agriculture Oasienne Centre Régional de Télédétection des États d Afrique du Nord Centre Royal de Teledetection Spatial Civil Society Organizations Centre Technique des Dattes Cellule Territoriale de Vulgarisation Direction de l Aménagement de Territoire Department for International Development Direction Générale des Études et Grands Travaux Hydrauliques Direction Générale de Génie Rural et de l Exploitation des Eaux Direction Générale de la Production Agricole Direction Générale des Ressources en Eau Decision Support Tool Executing Partner Earth Resources Observation and Science Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Office European Union Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations Final Evaluation French Fund of Global Environment Field Project Management Information System Groupements de Développement Agricole Global Environmental Benefits Global Environment Facility GEF Secretariat GEF Trust Fund Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems Groupement d Intérêt Hydraulique Geographic Information System Global Land Cover Network Global Water Information System Global Water Partnership Programme Mediterranean Haut Commissariat aux Eaux et Forêts et à la Lutte Contre la Désertification 5

6 IFAD INRM IRA ISET LADA LCCS LCMT LD LDCF LRIMS LTO LTU LULUCF M&E MAD-CAT MAP MDRE MEA MENA MENA- DELP MENARID NAP NAPAs NBSAPs NCSAs NGO NIPs OREDD ORMV OSS PACO PCU PGDEO PIF PIR PMC POT PPG PPR PRODOC PRSPs PSC PY RADDO SASS SCCF SDC SDG SFM SLM STAP TCI TNAs TOR ToT TSC UMA International Fund for Agricultural Development Integrated Natural Resource Management Institut des Régions Arides (de Médenine) Institut des sciences et des technologies Land Degradation Assessment in Drylands Land Cover Classification System Land Cover Mapping Toolbox Land Degradation Least Developed Countries Fund Land Resources Information Management Systems Lead Technical Officer Lead Technical Unit Land Use, Land Use Change and Forestry Monitoring and Evaluation Mapping Device Change Analysis Tool Mapping Accuracy Program Ministère du Développement Rural et de l'environnement (Mauritania) Millennium Ecosystem Assessment Middle East and North Africa Middle East and North Africa Desert Ecosystem and Livelihoods Program Middle East and North Africa Development National Action Programme National Action Programme of Action National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans National Capacity Self-Assessment Non Governmental Organization National Implementation Plans Observatoires Régionaux de l Environnement et du Développement Durable Office Régional de Mise en Valeur Agricole Observatoire du Sahara et du Sahel Programme d Actions Concertées des Oasis Project Coordination Unit Programme de Gestion Durable des Écosystèmes Oasiens Project Identification Form (GEF) Project Implementation Review Project Management Cost Programme Oasis de Tafilatet Project Preparation Grant (GEF) Project Progress Report Project Document Poverty Reduction Strategy Papers Project Steering Committee Project Year Réseau Associatif de Développement Durable des Oasis Système Aquifère du Sahara Septentrional Special Climate Change Fund Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation Sustainable Development Goals Sustainable Forest Management Sustainable Land Management Scientific and Technical Advisory Panel Investment Centre Division (FAO) Technology Needs Assessments Terms of Reference Transfer of Technology Technical Steering Committee Union du Maghreb Arabe 6

7 UNCBD UNCCD UNFCCC USD WOCAT United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change United States Dollar World Overview of Conservation Approaches and Technologies 7

8 SECTION 1 RELEVANCE 1.1 GENERAL CONTEXT a) General development context related to oases management and monitoring in the Maghreb region Oases ecosystems dominate zones of about 30% of the grounds that emerged along the large arid scarf that links Africa to Asia, from the Sahara to Mongolia. They are home to about 150 million people, who are custodians of a rich culture and indigenous knowledge. The oasis agro-ecosystem is a unique system based on a three-level canopy, which includes date palm (the highest tier), orchards (middle tier) and annual/perennial recurrent crops at the lowest tier. Management practices and agricultural techniques that have been implemented for millennia in the oases of the world reflect the amazing skills of local populations in using their limited environment and biodiversity in a sustainable way so as to ensure continued economic productivity. Oases ecosystems are formed by a rigorous management of rare water, land and biological resources in a strong alliance with the date palm tree. Oases are patiently worked out ecosystems by the societies that inhabit them, in the form of very complex social, ecological and economical constructions, in the face of a hostile environment. Within this framework, oases constitute verified and live experiments of sustainable development, as well as an incomparable source of expertise. They have been recognized as ecosystems to be protected in the final declaration of Rio+20, the future we want 1. Moreover, some of these oases areas have been included in the GEF-funded global project Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS 2 ) because of their unique characteristics and important contribution to a sustainable future. As of today, in each oasian ecosystem, communities face common environmental problems: mounting water scarcity, fragile and degraded soils, water and wind erosion, and the decline of genetic resources. These problems are resulting in a spiral of increasing rural poverty and acceleration of degradation of natural resources, such as pastoral genetic resources and local vegetation, with outward migration of poor people to urban areas and abroad (mainly young men) 3. The replacement of customary institutions (including indigenous knowledge systems) by new forms of state organisation are leading to the progressive abandonment of traditional oases agricultural systems, and resulting in a gap in the transmission of traditional knowledge systems to younger generations and in the long term, genetic erosion and loss of oases native and wild species. Natural resources, especially land, soil, water, plant and animal diversity, provide ecosystem services that are fundamental for the structure and sustainable functioning of oases. Historically the path of global agricultural development has been narrowly focused on Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) through the GEF Funded Project spearheaded by FAO with piloting sitespecific activities on adaptive management and dynamic conservation practices. More information is available at 3 Even though no global figures exist, field case studies indicate that migration more than compensates the natural increase of population: De Haas, Hein (2001) Migration and Agricultural Transformations in the oases of Morocco and Tunisia. Utrecht: KNAG; Mohamed Aït hamza et B. El faskaoui Les oasis du Drâa au Maroc (pp 56-69) ; GIAHS Project (Algeria and Tunisia) 8

9 increased productivity, but such an approach is not suitable to the needs of complex and fragile agro-ecosystems such as oases. A holistic or systems approach is needed to address the difficult issues associated with the complexity of food and other production systems in different ecologies, locations and cultures. Generally, oasis communities have practiced traditional, low-input agriculture based on available local resources, and on long-evolved knowledge of their environment, agroecosystem functions, as well as the biodiversity that surrounds them. As the need for more productive systems emerged, agricultural intensification in oasis systems has resulted in the adoption of unsustainable practices, exacerbated by environmental factors (climate change, increasing occurrence of drought, etc.). Hence, oasis communities need social, technical, infrastructure and other services as a package in order to sustain and conserve the oasis heritage. Box 1.1 Traditional vs modern oases When it comes to describing oases systems, it should be noted that modern does not necessarily mean new, and traditional does not mean old. An oasis of ancient existence can have the characteristics of a modern oasis and vice versa. To qualify these concepts the main features of a modern oasis and traditional oasis are summarized in the following: Characteristics of traditional oases (i) Fragmentation and small size of holdings; (ii) high density of palm trees (greater than 200 feet/ha); (iii) prevalence of common varieties; (iv) earth irrigation systems; (vi) significant density of fruit trees and species diversity; (vi) the importance of consumption and little openness on the socioeconomic environment. These oases are characterized by high fragmentation and low farm sizes resulting from the division of the land inheritance. Characteristics of modern oases (i) greater size of farms; (ii) lower density of palm tree (100 to 150 feet/ha); (iii) prevalence of little number of date varieties that generate income; (iv) organized middle tier; (v) opening to markets for inputs and products. Closer to monoculture production systems, modern oases are better embedded in market perspectives while traditional oases are often disqualified in the economic exchanges. Source: Cadre pour la Gestion Environnementale et Sociale du Projet Gestion Durable des systèmes oasiens tunisiens GDEO. Février F/E44910MNA0ESMF00Box385163B00PUBLIC0.pdf During the last decade, efforts have been made across the Maghreb to improve sustainable land management (SLM) practices to address land degradation (LD) issues impacting on oases. A number of projects have focused on organic matter management like composting and other agro-ecological approaches, as well as methods like combating salinization using 9

10 indigenous techniques. The conservation and multiplication of local seeds in order to minimize the use of chemicals that have a negative impact on the fragile eco-system, is another example, as well as the use of natural substances to reduce disease and insects. Efforts at the regional level have focussed on mobilizing governments at the highest levels to integrate issues related to natural resources management in policy making, as well as on developing strategic research and advisory services to countries. Organizations such as the Observatoire du Sahel et du Sahara (OSS), the Centre Aghrymet, and Centre Régional de Télédétection des États d Afrique du Nord (CRTEAN), have all been active partners in drought preparedness and monitoring, regional monitoring of pests and diseases, and information sharing on production and productivity. There are also efforts at the grass-roots level to address the unique challenges faced by oasian communities. For example, the RADDO network was set up in 2001 as a knowledge platform for the Maghreb oases with an objective to support the action of local associations and their dynamics, to strengthen the capacities of community based organizations (CBOs) to engage actively in socio-economic development, and to share technical expertise. The network collects and provides information among its members, promoting best practices implemented in the oases. b) Country context Mauritania is one the most water scarce countries with a total renewable water resource (TRWR) of 2,931 m 3 /year per capita 1. Only 0.5% of its total surface is considered arable. Severe droughts, variable rainfall and an increase of human pressure on the natural resource base have broken the equilibrium of the Sahelian oasis ecosystems and are now seriously threatening the services they traditionally provided, such as food, shelter, and energy. Mauritanian oases (which are approximately 350 in number, and house approximately 230,000 people) are scattered, remote and often inaccessible, and mostly located in the Adrar, Tagant, and Assaba regions, as well as in the two Hodhs. Furthermore, the development of the oases is uneven across regions; it is relatively intense in the Adrar and northern Tagant but relatively limited in Assaba and the two Hodhs. Oasian production (dates, cereals, legumes) represents 30% of agricultural production in the country, contributing to the livelihoods of an estimated population of 230,000 people 2. The date palm production was of 18,857 tonnes in In the 1970s, several years of drought decimated livestock, increased rural outmigration dramatically and profoundly disrupted the oases system. However, in recent years the oases have been subjects of renewed interest by the nomadic populations affected by the loss of livestock 4. Morocco houses the largest oasis area in the world, covering a total area of 115,563 km 2, which represents 15% of the country. Mainly distributed in four major regions of Tafilalet, Guelmim, Figuig and Draa, Moroccan oases are approximately 90 in number and home to 1,7 million inhabitants (5% of Morocco s population) 5,6,7. As in most oases in the Maghreb region, date palms contribute to agricultural incomes for about one million inhabitants and faostat3.fao.org/browse/q/qc/e Conseil Général du Développement Agricole

11 underpin an important commercial activity between the South and North of the country, as well as participating in the creation of employment and population stabilization. In addition to the unique genetic diversity of the regional date palm, associated crops also represent significant biological and economic wealth (almond, cereals, alfalfa, henna, rose, aromatic and medicinal plants) 1. Not uncommon to many other oasis systems, Moroccan oases productive heritage and way of life are threatened as a result of environmental and anthropogenic factors such as: succession of dry periods, bayoud disease, locusts, urbanisation and associated socio-economic transformation, water and soil salinity as well as desertification overall, 2/3 of date palm heritage was lost during the 20 th century. In Tunisia, oasis areas have experienced various periods of crisis during their history that sometimes led to their decline and even their outright abandonment by the population. Following such crises, oases revivals were assured through investments made by the State, by the oases communities themselves, or even by external private investors. In the early 19 th century to the mid 20 th oases experienced an ecological quasi-equilibrium but also a strong socio-economic imbalance that resulted in a decline of productivity. It was only after Tunisia s independence that stimulus began to improve the situation of oases, which only began in the 70s. Thus, in the late 70s - early 80s a vast program of rehabilitation of old oases and the creation of new modern palm groves took place. These actions were based on extensive hydrogeological studies, which resulted in a Plan Directeur des Eaux du Sud - Master Plan of Southern Waters (PDES). The strategy proposed the rehabilitation and improvement of 20,000 hectares of old oases and the creation of 4,500 hectares of new palm plantations 2. Today, the 151 oases in Tunisia occupy approximately 40,800 ha of land area, of which, 47% are traditional (approx. 19, 177 ha) 3 and 950,000 people live in those oases (10% of the Tunisian population. c) Status, root causes, threats and barriers to oasis ecosystems adaptation to a changing environment As noted above, oases face common environmental challenges such as land degradation, water scarcity, drought, erosion, declines in soil fertility, and declines in available genetic diversity. These are exacerbated by increasing rural poverty, division of land by inheritance, loss of traditional knowledge on farming practices, lack of technical means, together with the low added value of oasian products, which lead to outmigration and lack of labour force for the maintenance of a viable and resilient ecosystem. A survey of approximately 30 stakeholder organizations conducted in the project s participating countries during the PPG also revealed that most participants considered that the lack of information on the state of ecosystems (land-use maps, information on water resources, etc.) was a major hindrance to sustainable oasis management (see appendix 8 for survey results), thus adding to the difficulty of adaptive oasis ecosystem management wwwwds.worldbank.org/external/default/wdscontentserver/wdsp/ib/2014/03/24/ _ /rendered/ PDF/E44910MNA0ESMF00Box385163B00PUBLIC0.pdf 3 %20(5266)%20-%20Oases%20Ecosystems%20and%20Livelihoods%20Project/ %20PID%20Document%20Concept%20Stage.pdf 11

12 Altogether, these causes lead to the inability for decision makers and communities living in the oasis ecosystems to adapt to the rapidly changing environment (including climate change). Furthermore, two key barriers to addressing these issues and thus to achieve resilience and adaptability in the oasian ecosystems have been identified, as seen below. Lack of information and knowledge on the current status and future development of the oasis ecosystems among decision makers, CSOs and local communities The projects and initiatives currently implemented in oases ecosystems mostly deal with environment conservation, protection from desertification, as well as the development of tools and assessments of land degradation (see sections and 4.1b). There are, to date, no initiatives designed to monitor the area covered by oasis regionally, or trends within oases, including the impacts of conversion from traditional to modern oasis systems across the Maghreb. The ability of the participating countries to deal with oasis-related degradation in the face of increasing environmental stresses, particularly climate change, is deficient on two accounts. In the first place there is an insufficient awareness of the problem and its root causes among a various stakeholders (policy-makers, CSOs, users), and therefore national policies or local practices may not be as conducive as could be in ensuring a sustainable development of oasis systems. Secondly, the systems for monitoring, data collection and analysis in and between countries are not harmonized, preventing the creation of national or regional management systems. The availability of reliable and timely geospatial information on environmental conditions and their changes in oasis ecosystems is one of the prerequisites for planning their sustainable development and the management of their land and water resources and the protection of their environment. Land use policy-makers and rural development planners need such information in order to ensure food security for increasing population, supply of fresh water, creation of work opportunities in rural areas, and conservation of land and water resources. Unfortunately, as surveyed in March 2015, that kind of geographic information and environmental databases are most often lacking (appendix 8). As a result, the lack of regional capacity to implement standard approaches for adequate assessment and monitoring of land resources and to access environmental data and information, coupled with the lack of knowledge on how to use data and information to support the decision, becomes a serious obstacle in the development initiatives within oasis systems. Standardized land resources information management systems and corresponding management option guidelines would greatly assist both professional planners and local stakeholders (together with the CSO networks that support them). A survey conducted during the PPG phase of the project in the participating countries (Mauritania, Morocco and Tunisia) revealed the desire of respondents to harmonize practices for data collection and data management at a national level through existing international standards. Lack of awareness and means to support best agro-ecological practices for oasis system Most oasis communities still lack the infrastructure, information and capacity to tap into technical and social support services and to identify markets, as highlighted in the PPG 12

13 surveys (appendix 8). Often, government-provided technical support services, such as agricultural extension, are modelled on national productivity requirements, rather than the unique challenges and production models of oases. This results in the inability to implement sustainable agro-ecological practices, which is further compounded by the lack of existing harmonized parameters and methodologies to monitor natural resources. d) Institutional and policy framework Regional Framework Although there does not exist an overarching entity responsible for overseeing the sustainable and adaptive management of oasis ecosystems in the Maghreb, some regional organizations have been playing a role in preserving those unique ecosystems, as described below. The Union du Maghreb Arabe (UMA) was created to consolidate relations between the Member States and their peoples (current member states: Algeria, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, and Tunisia); ensure the realization of progress and well-being of their communities and the protection of their rights; facilitate the progressive realization of the free movement of persons, services, goods and capital between member states, and; to adopt a common policy in all areas - in economic terms, the common policy is to ensure the industrial, agricultural, commercial and social development of member states. Although the UMA does not have a specific mandate to oversee and manage oasis ecosystems, this regional structure recognizes the importance and contribution of oasis ecosystems in terms of food security and economy in the member states of the Maghreb, and therefore the need to proect these ecosystems. The UMA has overseen the adoption of a large number of regional treaties, many of which have implications for regional cooperation on environmental and food security issues. Established as an international entity in 1992, the Observatoire du Sahara et du Sahel (OSS) is an intergovernmental organization operating in Africa s Sahara-Sahel region based in Tunisia. OSS provides a platform for North-South-South partnerships aimed at strengthening the capacity of African member countries (22 total) to address environmental challenges as part of a long-term, sustainable development vision for the Sahel-Sahara region. Although not specifically devoted to oasis ecosystem research, the OSS has developed relevant scientific and technical expertise on approaches and methodologies for environmental monitoring, natural resource management and climate change adaptation, which can be used and implemented in member countries. More relevant to the current project, the OSS had initiated several programmes, projects and studies over the last decade that are aimed at establishing a system to monitor desertification and land degradation: (i) Integrated Land and Water Management for Adaptation to Climate Variability and Change (ILWAC); (ii) AFROMAISON: In partnership with the Institut des Régions Arides (IRA) of Médenine, the OSS is coordinating a case study in Oum Zessar - Tunisia, which focuses on climate change impacts and watershed management; (iii) Système Aquifère du Sahara Septentrional (SASS): In the context of the third phase of the project SASS III, OSS collaborates with the Global Watership Programme Mediterranean GWPMed with the aim to integrate the consideration of the impact of climate changes on the monitored water resources, and (iv) MENADELP (see section 4.1b). Finally, another key regional organization involved in the sustainable development of oases is the Réseau Associatif de Développement Durable des Oasis (RADDO; see Table 4.1). Established in 2001, it was founded as a direct response to the inhabitants of African oases 13

14 wish to alt the steady decline of their environment, and aims at protecting and promoting the sustainable development of oases. Over the years, the RADDO has developed a large network of several oasis stakeholders and actors in the Maghreb, as well as developing strong competencies in capacity building, communication and awareness-raising strategies. The RADDO has also lead successful advocacy campaigns related to oasis sustainable development. National Frameworks Mauritania: In order to address land degradation affecting agro-pastoral areas and oases, the Mauritanian government adopted the following national strategies and policies: the National Biodiversity Strategy (1998); the National Action Plans for Adaptation to Climatic Change (NAPA), 2004, and for combating Desertification (PAN-LCD), 2002; the National Environmental Action Plan (NEAP) has a specific objective to address water management for the benefit of oases agriculture. A Sustainable Development Program for Oasis (PDDO) is being implemented in the course of business financing for the development of FADES. Furthermore, to address the constraints and roots causes of land and oases degradation (i.e. poverty, limited access to technologies, poor management and uncontrolled usage of resources), the Mauritanian government also put in place policies and strategies such as the Schéma National d Aménagement du Territoire (1986); the Land Tenure Law Loi foncière et domaniale (1997, 2002); the Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper (PRSP, 2011) and the 2001 Agro-food Strategy. However, the absence of efficient intersectoral consultations and coordination mechanisms, weak national and local institutions for land use control and management and lack of incentives for adoption of improved land management result in lack of land-use planning, unclear land tenure regimes, and inconsistent or non-enforced legislative and incentive frameworks. Table 1.1 Role of the various institutions involved in oasis ecosystem management in Mauritania National Organisation/institution Ministère de l Agriculture Ministère du Développement Rural et de l'environnement (MDRE) Centre National de Recherche Agronomique et de Développement Agricole (CNRADA) Role/responsibilities Its mission, among others, is to design and implement policies for the development of agriculture and livestock as well as for rural development. It is the operational focal point of the project and can potentially host the database platform and maintain it periodically. It can provide the project with existing data and can pilot data collection on the field, particularly agricultural data. This Department is responsible for all matters related to the protection of sites and landscapes, including the improvement of the state of natural environment, the fight against pollution and nuisances of all kinds, the fight against desertification, the development timber production, the protection of fauna and flora, etc. It is also the GEF Operational Focal Point and is by consequence the political partner of the project. One of the three agricultural research centers in Mauritania. The center s research is organized under five main programs: 1) irrigation-based production systems; 2) rain- and riverfed production systems; 3) desert oases systems; 4) sylvo-pastoral systems, and; 4) peri-urban production systems. It operates under the Ministry of Agriculture (MDRE). His research activities deal with the performance varieties for seeds and varieties of trees (palm trees), optimization of production and the availability of irrigation techniques for the benefit of farmers, innovation to find crops adapted to the new environment, etc. It will assist the project in the identification of good practices, feeding the database and 14

15 Governorate Local Le GRET Faculté des sciences et techniques (Université de Nouakcott) Institut des sciences et des technologies (ISET) Projet de Développement Durable des Oasis (PDDO) Unions régionales des Associations de Gestion Participative des Oasis (AGPO) TENMIYA (RADDO) dissemination of good practice for farmers. Develops access programs to services such as drinking water, latrines, domestic energy or electricity, in rural areas. It also introduces technical solutions for water treatment, installation of multifunctional platforms and services, special electrical equipment adapted to renewable energy, manufacturing technology of coal typha, cheap improved latrines, etc. The current project will be able to benefit from the GRET on data and information collection as well as local identification of best practices for managing natural resources in oasis. Conducts research in the field of science and technology, and the production expertise. It can help the project in training programs and providing logisitics for its implementation. Its mission is to: train mid-level managers and senior executives in order to prepare for their professional integration; provide professional training; practice research and innovative technology; make best practices on farming and livestock breeding more accessible; support the development of agro-pastoral and food sectors; promote and establish a business incubator for entrepreneurship and to support the creation of innovative and sustainable businesses. The ISET could potentailly be involved as a training and capacity building center under the current project. It is involved in the development in the organization and management of local capacities and the promotion of sustainable exploitation of productive resources of oases, and the improvement of the living conditions of rural populations; etc. It can help the project on data collection and information analysis. The project can draw also lessons from its past experience coordinate with it to pool resources in order to complement the existing work tasks and activities. They have the legal responsibility to initiate, plan, direct and monitor all development activities in oases areas. They can contribute to the current project by: mobilizing local communities; organising local population; collect data and undertake environmental monitoring; identifying good practices, etc. Currently, they are comprised of approximately 13,000 members and have a household penetration rate of almost 63%. As a national focal point of RADDO this NGO ensures the implementation and the animation of a network of oasian associations in Mauritania in the field of advocacy for the sustainable development in oases areas. They promote global sustainable development and the establishment of a social well being within the oasis. As a partner in the project, the RADDO, through its national focal points (eg Tenmiya), could have an active role in the capitalization of good practices, as well as the communication and capacity building strategies. The Moroccan government has elaborated a variety of strategies and action plans to address the safeguard of oases and to combat or adapt to climate change (National plan to combat climate change, national strategy and action plan of for water, energy strategy, etc.). Some of those plans include a national strategy for sustainable development of oases as well as sustainable territorial development programmes (Southern Sustainable Development Programme/Tafilalet Oases) 1. In 2010, a National Agency for the Development of Oasis and Argan Zones (ANDZOA) was created according to Dahir n of 7 Muharram 1432 (13 December 2010) promulgating law No of February 18, This Agency, established under the authority of the Ministry of Agriculture and Maritime Fishing, has for mission to develop, in coordination with government authorities, elected bodies and other agencies, a comprehensive program for sustainable development of the oases and Argan territories and ensure its implementation, monitoring and evaluation

16 The government is also putting more emphasis on the fight against desertification as manifested in the ratified Morocco National Action Program to combat desertification (NAP), which links efforts to combat desertification with broader poverty reduction and rural development strategies. This program was updated in 2011 to be more adapted to the regional specificities of Morocco with respect to its sensitivity to desertification processes. In 2008, the Moroccan government adopted a strategy the Green Morocco Plan (Plan Maroc Vert, PMV, ) to drive and reform the agricultural sector, promote the integration of agriculture into international markets and help agriculture achieve sustainable growth. The Government of Morocco (GoM) envisaged a paradigm shift from a highly protected agriculture with a self-sufficiency goal to a dynamic, more open market strategy that emphasizes integrated value-addition along the agri-food chain in order to create better opportunities for small and large farmers alike. The PMV provides a roadmap for implementing a series of systemic public sector reforms and investments to achieve these goals 1, and is promoting the development of the country s agricultural and territory and the National Initiative for Human Development 2. The Green Morocco Plan focuses on two objectives, namely (i) the development of a modern and competitive agriculture, vital for the national economy and (ii) the support to smallholder agriculture through the promotion of greater productivity, greater recovery of production and sustainability of farm income. As part of this new agricultural policy of Morocco, particularly Pillar 2 of the Green Morocco Plan, the European Union (EU) and Morocco have implemented a Program that aims at boosting and strengthening the performance of the Moroccan agricultural sector. This program named PAPSA, has developed, among other things, an ecosystem-management and development plan for palm trees productions. Table 1.2 Role of the various institutions involved in oasis ecosystem management in Morocco National Organisation/institution Agence Nationale de Développement des Zones Oasiennes et de l Arganier (ANDZOA) Direction de l Aménagement du Territoire (DAT) Minisry of Agriculture and fisheries Agence pour le Développement Agricole (ADA) National Direction of Meteorology (DMN) Role/responsibilities Aims at developing, in coordination with government authorities, elected bodies and other agencies, a comprehensive program for sustainable development of the oases and Argan territories and to ensure its implementation, monitoring and evaluation. The ANDZOA, operates under the authority of the Ministry of Agriculture. It conducts, analyzes and concerts strategic thinking on major issues that are experiencing or will experience Moroccan territories to inform key decision makers of the nation. It accompanies the development of stakeholders at different territorial levels to help them formulate, implement, and perpetuate a dynamic of sustainable development. This ministry through its regional offices will be involved in all activities related to the uses of agricultural lands of oasis. It will provide data and agronomic information; contribute to the building capacity of the actors, will help identify good agricultural practices, provide technical support to data collection at the local level. Participates in the implementation of the strategy adopted by the government in terms of agricultural development. Is specifically responsible for proposing to the government authorities the action plans in support of agricultural sectors with high added value. Given that climatic data is paid for in Morocco and can be expensive to get access to, the DMN establishes partnerships with national projects that will then benefit from the DMN s climate data and information, which is already processed. 1 Morocco Social and Integrated Agriculture, GEF Project P INDH 2005, a five-year plan for sustainable socioeconomic and political development, aimed at building infrastructure and providing employment and social services, particularly in rural areas 16

17 Régional Local Centre Royal de Teledetection Spatial (CRTS) Haut Commissariat aux Eaux et Forêts et à la Lutte contre la Désertification Office Régional de Mise en Valeur Agricole (ORMV) Observatoires Régionaux de l Environnement et du Développement Durable (OREDD) Agences de Bassin Hydraulique (ABH) Office National du Conseil Agricole (ONCA) National Institute of Agronomic Research Agence de Développement des Provinces du Sud et Agence de l Oriental Fédération interprofessionnelle marocaine des dattes (Fimadattes) Réseau Associatif de Développement Durable des Oasis (RADDO) Groupements d'intérêt Economique (GIE) Local associations This institution is responsible of the acquisition, archiving and dissemination of data and images on Earth observation and the development of methodologies in Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and related areas. The CRTS is the lead agency for the sale of satellite images in Morocco and has the knowledge and data in GIS and environmental monitoring. It will help the project to set up an information system and will eventually host the database at the national level. Acts a focal point for the Convention to Combat Desertification and is responsible for implementing dune fixation measures against the advance of sand in oases areas. Under the current project, it could contribute to data collection as well as providing good practices on the fight against desertification. It could also provide logistical support for the project implementation when needed. Consolidates equipment of irrigation and drainage network and, in general, planning that aim at improving agricultural productivity. Aims at assessing the state of the environment (at a national and regional level). Defines and ensures the indicators update on sustainable development. Develops tools and management systems on environmental information, disseminates environmental data, and shares them in the national network and regional networks. Aim at developing a coherent and coordinated planning of water resources across the various river basins. They are also responsible for overseeing the quantitative and qualitative protection and conservation of water resources, and the optimum and rational use of water. Can inform the project on national agricultural policy; provide data and advocacy for oasis. Conduct awareness campaigns for farmers at the agricultural advisory centers to encourage them to use sustainable techniques and practices. Conduct the scientific and technical research related to agriculture and livestock development. It ensures also the dissemination of documentation resulting from its own research programs or from those carried out abroad. It can help in data collection and analysis, identifying and dissiminnating good agricultural practices advise agricultural extension agencies and farmers; share knowledge on mapping, date palm stands and on the productivity of different varieties, cultivation techniques, exploitation and utilization of agricultural oases natural ressources. They study and propose development strategies, pooling the efforts of different government departments and seek necessary funding in order to promote the design and implementation of clear economic and social impact projects in their respective territories. The oases are within their areas of action. They may be associated in data collection, the design and implementation of the platform of data and information sharing, advocacy for oasis and the rising of more resources/funds to support potential complementary actions of the project, etc. Represent all the dates producers and help them the commercilisation of products. Can help the proejct in the development of expertise in transformation of dates, improving their economic value and commercialization; mobilize its suppliers, customers and members to unify the advocacy efforts and capitalization of local knowledge; etc. Main partner of the project with the partnership of FAO. It will mobilize civil society and other actors interested in oases. Its members may be trainers for the local population in terms of good practices methdolology and identification, asset tracking, data collection, etc It will provide information and knowledge for data and sharing. Its can play an important role in advocating for the oases and in the elaboration of the oasis charter. It will provide the project the contacts for its regional network, etc. Could possibly contribute to the financing and implementation of advocacy and capacity building of local stakeholders. They can also provide information and data on oases. Can help the project to have the information and local data, 17

18 Local collectivities Traditional Institutions (Jmaa, etc.) Association Oasis Ferkla for Environment and Heritage (AOFEP) indigenous knowledge, interaction with local populations, the identification of good practice, the interface with the local population and the multiplier of information, advocacy, etc. They will benefit from the capacity building that will be piloted by the project. They are in charge of creating the conditions for economic development, taking responsibility to facilitate dialogue and interstakeholder synergies across its territory. As entities responsible for the territory and local affairs maagement, they can facilitate the contact with the local population in the impementing sites of the project, provide technical and logistical support, disseminate information, advocate oases, contribute to the development of the Charter of oasis, make local data and information available; etc. They are in charge of managing common lands; flushing and planning irrigation canals (khettarats); managing communautity various conflictsthey can provide lcal and expertise on issues related to natural resources harvesting and use. They can also help in mobilizing communities, capitalizing on local knowledge in the implementation of good practices, data collection and monitoring on local resources management; etc. As a national focal point of RADDO, this NGO does ensure the implementation and the animation of a network of oasian associations in Morocco in the field of advocacy for the sustainable development in oases areas In Tunisia, several administrative structures are involved in oasis management that are mostly dependent on the Ministry of Agriculture as well as on socio-professional organizations. However, as reported through surveys during the PPG, such structures most often act in a sectorial and uncoordinated manner that is not conducive to a sustainable management of the oasis ecosystems. As such, the various survey respondents indicated their desire for the creation of a single entity, or the rehabilitation of an existing one, by clearly assigning the responsibility of overseeing the management of oasis ecosystems similar to the role of the ANDZOA in Morocco. The list of those organisations and institutions as well as their various roles can be seen in further details below (Table 1.3). Table 1.3 Role of the various institutions involved in oasis ecosystem management in Tunisia National Governorate Organisation/institution Direction Générale du Génie Rural et de l exploitation des eaux (DG/ GREE) Direction Générale des Études et Grands Travaux Hydrauliques (DG/EGTH) Direction Générale des Ressources en Eau (DGRE) Commissariats régionaux de développement agricole (CRDA) Direction Générale du développement régional Groupement d Intérêt Hydraulique (GIH) Role/responsibilities To supervise study and the realization of hydro-agricultural planning, as well as orientating irrigation management plans. It also promotes agricultural water user networks, including in oases. With regards to oasis, this organisation is responsible for planning of irrigated perimeters. Responsible for the observation and monitoring of water resources. Also responsible for issuing authorizations for water exploitation and usage. Represents the Ministry of Agriculture at the Governorate level. Supports agricultural development and natural resource management in oases through their various technical services. Depends on the Ministry and/or on the State Secretariat of regional development and planning (created following the revolution of January 2011). Responsible for the creation of regional development plans stemming from the concerted efforts of various development stakeholders in the regions such plans have to take into consideration of the various governorates specificities. A decision committee that works on matters related to water management (including in oases). It is presided by the governor and is composed of representatives of the ministry, technical 18

19 Local Local associations Centre Régional de Recherche en Agriculture Oasienne (CRRAO) Centre technique des dattes (CTD) Institut des Régions Aride de Médenine (IRA) Agence Foncière Agricole (AFA) Délégation Cellule Territoriale de Vulgarisation (CTV) Omda Association de sauvegarde de l'oasis de Chenini (ASOC) Groupements de Développement Agricole (GDA) services, users associations and socio-professional organisations. According to Sghaier 1, since 1987, the responsibilities of the GIH are centred towards consultations rather than decision-making, and since 2006, the GIH has been completely dissolved and replaced with a consultative commission to oversee all professional organisations. Entity whose main research themes focus on palm tree diseases, biological control, as well as water, soil and biodiversity resource management. Research entity whose main role is to bring, in partnership with other stakeholders, the necessary support and advice to date producers by putting into practice research outcomes. Created in 1976, under the responsibility of the Minister of Agriculture, the IRA s main mission is to conduct the research needed to develop the agricultural sector, the protection and conservation of natural resources and the fight against desertification in arid and desert regions. It also has a dedicated research program on the control of phytosanitary problems in oasis ecosystems. Covering all four Southern Governorates (Gabès, Gafsa, Kébili & Tozeur), it is responsible for fiscal cleansing in agricultural lands, as well as the control and supervision of agricultural land occupation. Despite important interventions, the AFA has not been able to slow down urbanization in oasis areas, especially since the revolution of January Intermediary administrative circonscription between the governorate and the sector (Imada). Sees to the functioning of local administrative services and presides the local development council. Tied to the CRDA and responsible to support farmers and to follow the technical activities put in place. Local authority responsible of the sector and representing political authorities. Plays an important role as mediator between population and local authorities. As a national focal point of RADDO this NGO ensures the implementation and animation of a network of oasian associations in Tunisia in the field of advocacy for the sustainable development in oases areas. In oases, its role is limited to the distribution and selling of water as well as the management of irrigation systems (maintenance and functioning of pumping equipment). In terms of national plans and strategies adopted in Tunisia, the National Action Plan to Combat Desertification aims at combating desertification and to reduce drought in arid, semiarid and dry sub-humid areas through resource protection and other development measures. The development of Tunisia s National Action Plan for Biodiversity Conservation has also implications on oases sustainability by covering priority areas such as (i) combating genetic erosion, (ii) protection of ecosystems, (iii) adequate management of ecosystems, (iv) the integration of biological diversity within sectorial strategic options and the (v) establishment of an appropriate institutional regulatory framework. In addition, the Tunisian legislation on land use and urban planning (Schéma directeurs d aménagement SDA; Plan d aménagement urbain PAU) has a consistent set of tools that cover most aspects of space development, which has impacts on oases ecosystems. However, the low financial and human resources of regional governments and local authorities limit the management of the urban development and thus the efficiency of the entire system. There are also many actions that have been developed based on the national water policy, such as: Le Programme National d Économie d eau; Le programme de dessalement des eaux saumâtres et de la mer; La gestion intégrée et rationnelle de l eau (politique tarifaire). With the support of World Bank and the GEF, the 1 Sghaier M. (2010). Étude de la gouvernance des ressources naturelles dans les oasis : Cas des oasis en Tunisie. UICN 19

20 national government is also implementing the Programme de Gestion Durable des Écosystèmes Oasiens (PGDEO) 1 e) Problems the project will address This project is based on the key assumption that, in order to better manage the oases, it is crucial to understand the dynamics at their root. Increased knowledge is therefore a means to enhance the sustainable management of oases throughout the region. As will be further discussed below the project will address two core problems that are limiting the participating countries from efficiently managing and monitoring their oasis ecosystems. The first problem comes from the lack of institutional skills and technical capacity to monitor LD trends in oasis ecosystems in a harmonized and standardized way, or to use the collected data for adaptive management. Secondly, and directly related to this, the lack of knowledge on best practices among CSOs, communities in oasis ecosystems and decision makers will also be addressed through the project. To address that second problem, the project will look at improving the capacity of local stakeholders in the oases of the Maghreb to disseminate knowledge and to conduct trainings on best management practices Rationale a) Baseline projects and investments Several ongoing initiatives aim at addressing, at least partially, some of the problems and root causes identified above. The following projects will form the baseline on which this project will build, through co-financing (see Table 1.4 below for the full listing of baseline cofinancing projects). Other baseline initiatives (past and ongoing) relevant to the current project with which coordination will be pursued will be described in section 4.1b. Table 1.4 Baseline projects on which the current GEF project will build Country Global Project FAOSTAT AQUASTAT Funding Bodies FAO FAO Co-financing projects Project s total budget IA Objective Duration (USD) To improve data USD 1,500,000 2 collection and dissemination for (Co-financing: FAO development and the USD fight against global 1,300,000) hunger. Ongoing USD 250,000 (Co-financing: USD 200,000) This is an indicative annual cost that can change significantly based on the needs, applications, existing capacity. The same applies to all financial entries of identified FAO projects. FAO To provide users with comprehensive information on the state of agricultural water management across the world, with emphasis on developing countries and countries in transition. Ongoing 20