In the heart of the southern oases, and on the sidelines of the National Oasis Forum held in the city of Zagora, the field visit carried out by the Minister of Agriculture, Maritime Fisheries, Rural Development and Water and Forests, Mr. Ahmed El Bouari, accompanied by the provincial governor and a high-level official delegation, to the “Nebch” experimental farm under to the National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA), stood out as a key moment to highlight one of the most important scientific bastions dedicated to safeguarding the nation’s plant heritage.

During this visit, the Institute’s Director General, Professor Lamiae Ghaouti, delivered a detailed presentation on the strategic roles played by this historic farm, emphasizing that it represents a fundamental pillar in supporting the date palm value chain, given the valuable genetic resources it preserves—resources that form the backbone of agricultural security in oasis regions.

Established in 1964, the “Nebch” farm is far more than a simple experimental site. Over decades of research and development, it has evolved into a living gene bank, hosting extensive and diverse collections of date palm varieties, both national and international, embodying the critical importance of preserving biodiversity in the face of accelerating climate change.

This unique site not only safeguards the genetic memory of date palms but also serves as an advanced scientific platform for developing new varieties that are more resistant to diseases—particularly Bayoud disease—and more resilient to water and heat stress. This contributes to ensuring sustainable production and improving farmers’ productivity.

The research conducted within the farm is part of a comprehensive vision aimed at strengthening the resilience of oasis ecosystems by valorizing local resources and developing modern agricultural management techniques, thereby supporting ecological balance and preserving the cultural and civilizational heritage associated with date palm cultivation.

The Nebch experimental farm in Zagora is not merely a center for scientific research; it is a living symbol of the convergence between knowledge and history, and a tangible expression of Morocco’s commitment to science and innovation as key drivers for protecting its plant resources and ensuring the sustainability of a vital sector that forms the backbone of life in oasis regions.

In light of the growing challenges facing fragile ecosystems, this scientific landmark stands out as a stronghold for conserving genetic diversity and as an open laboratory for generating future solutions, thereby reinforcing Morocco’s position as a regional leader in agricultural research and sustainable development.

Source : Almouhitalfilahi