Diversity of peri-urban horticulture as a development strategy for Beja region

Abstract

Horticulture has been occurring for a long time in Tunisia especially at the outskirts of cities. If, traditionally, the role of this horticulture was embodied in food function, today, this sector is one of the key factors of territorial development. It is considered as a viable and sustainable solution to food insecurity, unemployment, and environmental degradation. In Tunisia, this sector participates with 40% of agricultural production value, 27% of agricultural employment and 90% of vegetable needs. Despite its potentialities, horticulture in Tunisia is facing many challenges related to the growing urbanization and resource management. These factors will certainly cause the fragility of this horticulture if adequate measures are not implemented. Peri-urban horticulture should be thought of as a strategy. This strategy should focus on the sustainable management of horticulture through sustainable production intensification, diversification of functions, and improvement of the living conditions of small farmers. The aim of this study is to describe the potentialities of peri-urban horticulture in Beja region and to highlight the constraints that limit the expansion of these production systems. This study deals also with the role of peri-urban horticulture in the organization of the Tunisian northwest territory, particularly at Testour region.