A long-lasting collaboration to consolidate: the OSS receives the Ambassador of France in Tunisia, November, 4th, 2024

The Sahara and Sahel Observatory (OSS) had the pleasure of welcoming on Monday, November 4, 2024, Her Excellency Mrs. Anne Guéguen, Ambassador of France in Tunisia. This visit was an opportunity to discuss the fruitful cooperation between France and the OSS, on key environmental issues in Africa.

Mr. Nabil Ben Khatra, OSS Executive Secretary, explained the current and upcoming initiatives of the OSS implemented in the region, and covering the sustainable land management, the fight against ecosystem degradation, the analysis of the links between migration and the decline of agro-ecosystems, as well as adaptation to climate change. He also recalled the Organization role as a platform for collaboration and science-policy interface on crucial environmental issues. Particular emphasis was placed on the importance of promoting Ecosystem Natural Capital Accounting, an essential tool for assessing and quantifying the services provided by ecosystems, and its contribution in promoting sustainable tourism.

Mrs. Anne Guéguen reiterated France's support and restated the shared desire to strengthen the long-lasting and solid partnership with the OSS. She stressed the importance of the Organization role, as a local African regional entity, in reinforcing the resilience of communities and preserving natural resources.

This meeting made it possible to discuss prospects for future collaboration towards a promising future for the region.