Illustration of a field exchange in a cultivated plot in Northwest Tunisia.

Recognised as a public-interest association since 1980

Driving integrated and sustainable rural development in Northwest Tunisia since 1972

Over 54 years of experience alongside rural and forest communities in Bizerte, Béja, Jendouba and Le Kef.

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+54
years of experience
+45
integrated and sustainable rural development projects (PDRID)
+100 000
beneficiaries, approximately 12% of the targeted forest population
22
GDAP established at APEL’s initiative
4
SMSA established at APEL’s initiative

Who we are

One of the first Tunisian NGOs dedicated to supporting disadvantaged rural communities

Our mission: to sustainably improve living conditions in the four northwestern governorates (Bizerte, Béja, Jendouba, Le Kef), fostering autonomy, equity and resilience to socioeconomic and environmental challenges.

  • Integrated and sustainable rural development
  • Organic farming
  • Natural resource management
  • Local civil society organisation
Illustration of a discussion with farmers in a cultivated plot.
Illustration of a rural landscape in Northwest Tunisia.
Illustration of a participatory training session around a table.
Discover APEL

Areas of intervention

Four pillars for balanced development

A holistic approach: economic progress respects the environment and social equity.

Illustration of basic social services in a rural community.

Access to basic social services

Opening up isolated communities, drinking water, decent housing, health, social and education services.

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Illustration of agroforestry practices in Northwest Tunisia.

Agricultural development and resource management

Resilient agroforestry systems, land protection and collaborative natural resource management.

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Illustration of a social and solidarity economy activity.

Social and solidarity economy

Strengthening SMSA and GDAP, projects led by women and young people, organic and local product labels.

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Illustration of an income-generating beekeeping activity.

Income-generating activities

Entrepreneurship adapted to local conditions: beekeeping, poultry farming, crafts and small trades.

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Achievements 1972–2025

Five decades of measurable and lasting impact

Illustration of rural housing.
7 000
rural homes
Illustration of a rural road.
160 km
of rural roads
Illustration of an improved water source.
100
drinking water sources
Illustration of protected land.
1 500 ha
protected from erosion
Discover our achievements

Recent projects

In the field today

Prosol

Contrary to popular belief, Lorem Ipsum is not simply random text. It has roots in a piece of classical Latin literature from 45 BC, making it over 2000 years old. Richard…

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Partners and call to action

Would you like to work with us in Northwest Tunisia?

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Strategic outlook 2026–2030

Towards territorial resilience in the face of the climate emergency

Water stress and water security

Aligned with the Water 2050 strategy.

Climate adaptation and green entrepreneurship

Resilient agriculture, ADAPT programme.

Food sovereignty

The Northwest, Tunisia’s breadbasket.

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