As part of its ongoing commitment to environmental conservation, the Mubadarat network actively supports its beneficiaries through training and regional exchanges. It is with this in mind that the association Notre Grand Bleu, a beneficiary of the TransCap – Phase 3 program, recently took part in the COGICO training cycle (COGestion and Integrated Management of Dolphins and Islands), organized by the Conservatoire du littoral, in partnership with the PIM network and several Euro-Mediterranean actors.

Strengthen capacities to protect sensitive territories

Island areas, such as the Kuriat islands in Tunisia, are home to unique biodiversity but face multiple pressures: climate change, pollution, uncontrolled tourism, invasive alien species… These challenges require integrated management and shared governance approaches, at the heart of the COGICO training.

The first phase of the programme took place online in the form of MOOCs, offering 9 thematic modules and 170 videos illustrating concrete experiences in the Mediterranean basin. The director of Notre Grand Bleu, selected among the most committed participants, then participated in the practical session organized in the south of France from May 13 to 23, 2025.

A concrete and collaborative immersion

This field session allowed participants to explore protected coastal sites, participate in practical workshops, learn from experts in ecological restoration, communication, management of uses and sustainable projects.

During the conference organized on the island of Embiez, the representative of Notre Grand Bleu Mr Amjed Khiareddine, spoke on a crucial topic: the links between marine biodiversity and food security. He shared the Tunisian experience, highlighting:

  • The key role of marine ecosystems (seagrass beds, lagoons, MPAs) in food security;
    The impacts of biodiversity degradation on coastal communities;
    The importance of integrating biodiversity into food security policies through co-management, education and planning.

This contribution has allowed to enhance the efforts of local Tunisian NGOs and to bring the voice of the southern Mediterranean in a space often dominated by the northern Mediterranean perspectives.

Encourage the skills development of local actors

Beyond the knowledge acquired, this training has been an enriching human and professional experience, promoting exchanges, network creation, and sharing concrete tools replicable in similar contexts.

The Mubadarat network welcomes this participation and encourages all its beneficiaries to take part in similar training sessions, in order to strengthen their capacities, foster regional synergies and actively contribute to environmental preservation.

Through its various partnerships, Mubadarat remains committed to supporting civil society actors in the MENA region by providing them with opportunities for learning, collaboration and impact.