International Day of Argania 2023: Some important facts and background that you should know

For sustainable development, the argan tree serves as a crucial component. As a multi functional tree that helps generate revenue, enhances resilience, and aids in climate adaptation, the argan tree is critical to attaining sustainable development in its many forms, including economic, social, and environmental.

Community empowerment is enhanced by the sustainable argan producing industry. Women in rural regions are notably benefited. Cooperatives serve a crucial role in creating local employment possibilities, as well as helping to ensure food security and eradicate hunger.

International Day of Argania 2023 Date

For the third time, on May 10, 2023, Argania will be honored as a United Nations International Day. Moroccan attempts to promote the Argan tree as a treasured part of humanity’s intangible cultural heritage as well as a dependable source of resilient and long-term development have culminated in this festival.

International Day of Argania History

Rural Berber and Arab communities have long relied on the argan tree as a source that has been passed down through non-formal education. This is especially true of the women’s unique knowledge of how to make argan oil, which has been passed down exclusively through oral tradition for centuries.

Due to the traditional water management offered by the Mafia, a rock-carved reservoir collecting rainwater, the argan-based agroforestry-pastoral system contributes to climate change mitigation and adaptation as well as biodiversity protection.

An international conference to be held in Rabat, Morocco on May 10th, 2023, in honor of International Day of Argania and featuring a group of researchers and scientists in the field, was announced by UNESCO Director-General Dr. Salim M. AlMalik. The conference will issue recommendations to strengthen Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO).

Why should one celebrate International Day of Argania 2023?

• Morocco’s southwest region is home to the native argan tree (Argania spinosa), which thrives in dry and semiarid conditions. Arganeraie, a forest habitat rich in a unique flora, has its name in honor of this plant. Resilient to water shortage, erosion danger, and poor soils in a hostile climate.
• Because of its extensive forestry, agricultural, and cattle usage, this incredibly beautiful environment is crucial for research and socio-economic growth.
• Forest products, fruits, and fodder are all available in the argan tree forests. The leaves, as well as the undergrowth, are all edible and highly valued by livestock, and they serve as a critical store of feed during times of drought. It is also possible to utilize the trees as fuel.
• Traditional and alternative medicine, as well as the culinary and cosmetic sectors, use argan oil, which is derived from the seeds.
• For ages, argan trees have been farmed in this unique location, which has agricultural variety, resilient ecosystems, and an important cultural legacy. As a result, the United Nations has granted it recognition and protection.

Facts about International Day of Argania 2023

• In 1988, the Arganeraie Biosphere Reserve was established by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to protect the endemic producing region.
• Also, in 2014, the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity included all knowledge of the argan tree.
• Up to 50° Celsius may sustain the argan tree.
• More than 100 countries signed on to Morocco’s proposal at the United Nations, which was accepted unanimously.
• Argan trees, which may grow to 10 meters in height and survive for 200 years, are a great defense against desertification.
• Ait Souab – Ait Mansour in Morocco’s Ait Souab region was designated as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in December 2018.
• Traditionally, argan oil is offered as a wedding gift and is often used in the production of celebratory foods.
• To make 3 liters of argan oil, 150 kg of fruit is required.
• The argan tree has deeply symbolic and emotional significance for the people of the region as a symbol of endurance and eternity.

FAQs

What is Argania day about?

Ait Souab – Ait Mansour in Morocco’s Ait Souab–Ait Mansour region has been designated a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in December 2018. It was also designated as International Day of Argania by the United Nations in 2021.

Is it possible to cultivate argan trees in India? 

The argan tree thrives in hot and dry conditions, as well as in poor soil. Currently, an Indian corporation is engaged in the gathering of argan trees in the country’s plantations. Also, Morocco is exporting 100% argan seeds to India.

Where can you find an argan tree?

These trees are unique to an area in southern Morocco that is surrounded by the Sahara Desert and the Atlas Mountains, which are semi-desert, low-rainfall, and wooded.