An unparalleled union of efforts between 100 000 villagers, a grassroot NGO and a multinational company is about to prove to the world that habitat degradation is not terminal.

While synergizing their independent efforts, the three actors contributed to a pioneering work that leads to a new world record. This story is only beginning.

In the south of Morocco, the Atlas Mountains rocks burst under the heat, unveiling endless landscapes of ochre layers. Suddenly, a palm tree forest uncovers a human habitat, the oasis of Foum Zguid. Foum Zguid is typical of the southern oases. In fact, these water towers have provided farmers with sustainable living for more than 2000 years through cultivation of: dates, pomegranates, oranges, corn and many other crops. However, today oases are dying due to: human actions, droughts, and diseases.

Green islands are under threat

The water crisis is at the heart of oases problems, especially when agriculture makes 90% of the economic activities. The construction of dams, hot picks and irrational use of resources have weakened water resources. Moreover, the demographic growth rate increases the pressure on crop fields. Successive legacy have brought 1 hectare to 95% of field exploitations. The future of South Moroccan oases is under critical threat.

The promises of agroecology

New solutions were designed by the Program for Sustainable Development of Southern Territories, conducted by the Agency of the South in partnership with the UNDP. One of these solutions pertains to the principles of agroecology. This science fosters organic seeds profitability, while restoring the ecology of the oasis ecosystem. In Foum Zguid, the project was technically supported by a nonprofit CARI that promotes local farming.

First acres of certified organic henna

In the village of Smira, at the periphery of the oasis of Foum Zguid, 10 farmers of the Al Batha cooperative decided to review their methods of henna cultivation. These planters now use only organic seeds with non chemical fertilizers. They only irrigate with drip systems. To add value to their production and increase their income, the cooperative was certified organic in 2010, from one of the largest organic labelling organizations in the world; ECOCERT. This label is valid for one year. But farmers are individually and collectively responsible for meeting the certification requirements. If one fails to follow the requirements, the label is lost. With certified biological henna cultivation, farmers have set a more profitable and sustainable production system while decreasing the strain on their natural environment.