Reliable soil data is essential for informing agricultural policies and supporting productive and sustainable farming systems. Strengthening the analytical capacities of national laboratories is therefore a key institutional priority for sustainable natural resource management.
In Tunisia, FAO, in partnership with the General Directorate of Land Planning and Agricultural Land Conservation (DGACTA), is conducting technical training on wet chemistry for soil analysis at the Central Soil Analysis Laboratory. Implemented under the “SoilFER” programme and funded by Japan, this initiative aims to build national capacities for producing reliable soil data, guided by frameworks that promote harmonization and high-quality soil analyses.
The SoilFER programme’s project, “Improving integrated soil and crop management for sustainable food systems in Africa,” supports laboratory capacity building by collecting and analyzing soil samples in collaboration with national partners. More than 3,000 soil samples have already been collected, and enhancing laboratory analytical skills is recognized as critical for improving diagnostics and evidence-based decision-making.
The training focuses on wet chemistry techniques, harmonized analytical protocols, method validation, and adherence to standard operating procedures. It targets both central and regional laboratory personnel, aiming to improve the accuracy, comparability, and reliability of soil data to support national decision-making and agricultural policies.
Ms. Rafla Attia, Director of Soil Resources at DGACTA, highlighted that the project reflects strong national institutional commitment and effective coordination among stakeholders. The current session is the first of a four-part wet chemistry training cycle, complemented by additional training in dry chemistry using spectroscopy. The programme emphasizes practical learning, good laboratory practices, quality assurance, and safety standards.
These ongoing activities are designed to progressively strengthen technical capacities in partner laboratories, harmonize analytical practices nationally, and consolidate soil information systems. Ultimately, the initiative contributes to better-informed agricultural policies and the sustainable management of natural resources.
