The Minister of Hydraulics, Lounès Bouzegza, launched the 2026 agricultural irrigation campaign in Relizane on Friday evening. The official launch ceremony for this significant campaign took place specifically in the wilaya of Relizane, showing its importance to the region. The initiative aims to irrigate a surface area estimated at nearly 238,000 hectares across various wilayas. Bouzegza emphasized "la nécessité d’une exploitation optimale des ressources en eau disponibles, de leur préservation et de la rationalisation de leur consommation" (the need for optimal exploitation of available water resources, their preservation, and rationalization of their consumption). The Minister added that the campaign seeks to "garantir l’équilibre dans la répartition des ressources hydriques et l’équité dans l’alimentation des citoyens en eau" (ensure balance in the distribution of water resources and equity in water supply to citizens). This full approach reflects the government's commitment to sustainable water management and agricultural development.
Relizane's Water Allocation
The wilaya of Relizane is set to receive a total allocation of 37 million cubic meters of water as part of the 2026 agricultural irrigation campaign. This substantial distribution is specifically designed to support the region's agricultural needs and enhance its productivity. The allocation for Relizane represents a significant investment in the local agricultural sector, ensuring farmers have access to the necessary resources.
A substantial portion of this allocation, specifically 17 million cubic meters, will be sourced from the Sâada dam, providing a key supply for local farming initiatives. This particular dam is a key component of the regional water infrastructure. The remaining 20 million cubic meters designated for Relizane will originate from the Gargar dam, further diversifying the water sources. These combined sources aim to ensure adequate water availability for the irrigation efforts in the wilaya, promoting strong agricultural yields and supporting the livelihoods of local farmers. The strategic allocation from these two major dams notes a planned approach to water distribution.
Minister's Project Inspections
During his visit to the wilaya, Minister Lounès Bouzegza inspected several key infrastructure projects, demonstrating a hands-on approach to monitoring progress. Among these projects was the main wastewater collector for the new city of Benadda Benaouda, a critical piece of urban infrastructure. The Minister also visited a pumping station situated in Hraïzia. This station, which plays a vital role in water distribution, has an operational capacity of 20,000 cubic meters per day, ensuring efficient water movement. The inspections align with the broader objectives of the 2026 agricultural irrigation campaign, which seeks to optimize water resource management. Bouzegza reiterated that the campaign aims to "garantir l’équilibre dans la répartition des ressources hydriques et l’équité dans l’alimentation des citoyens en eau" (ensure balance in the distribution of water resources and equity in water supply to citizens), emphasizing the importance of these infrastructure developments in achieving that goal.
Hydraulic Infrastructure Status
The Minister of Hydraulics, Lounès Bouzegza, provided an update on the nation's water reserves, stating that Algeria's hydraulic infrastructures and dams currently maintain satisfactory filling levels. He attributed this positive status primarily to the significant rainfall received during the current season, which has replenished water sources. Bouzegza emphasized the ongoing efforts to ensure equitable distribution of water resources across all regions, a core principle of the ministry's strategy. He previously stated that the campaign aims to "garantir l’équilibre dans la répartition des ressources hydriques et l’équité dans l’alimentation des citoyens en eau" (ensure balance in the distribution of water resources and equity in water supply to citizens), showing the commitment to fair access. In parallel, the Ministries of Hydraulics and Finance are jointly studying a special program specifically designed for the upcoming summer season, anticipating potential increased demand and planning proactively to address it. This collaborative effort notes a forward-thinking approach to national water management.
Minister's Remarks on Water Management
The 2026 agricultural irrigation campaign was officially launched in the wilaya of Relizane, marking a key moment for agricultural development. Minister of Hydraulics Lounès Bouzegza announced that the global volume of water allocated for this campaign exceeds 340 million cubic meters. This substantial allocation aims to support agricultural activities across various wilayas, ensuring widespread benefits. This initiative forms part of broader efforts to ensure efficient water resource management and distribution, contributing to food security and sustainable development across the country. The Minister's statements show the strategic importance of water for Algeria's agricultural future.
