Extending Horizons in African Aquaculture: A Landmark Certification Achievement in Tunisia
Aquaculture is quickly gaining popularity in Africa, as countries seek to increase production to meet rising consumer demand for fish and seafood. With nearly 2 million people working in the business, aquaculture has the potential to significantly contribute to the region's food security and economic development. Tunisia, with its long Mediterranean coastline and pleasant climate, is at the forefront of this development. Currently, the country has 25 marine aquaculture farms that produce between 400 and 3,500 tons per year, with seabass and sea bream accounting for 96% of the total output. Tunisia's position in the sector will be emphasized when it hosts the 3rd Aquaculture Africa Conference (AFRAQ24) in November 2024.
As part of a larger effort to grow knowledge and certification in new locations, DNV’s Business Assurance team recently celebrated a key accomplishment in Tunisia. Business Assurance partnered with Groupe Méditerranée Aquaculture, a key participant in the local aquaculture business, to help the group achieve certification to the GlobalG.A.P. standard (aquaculture and CFM) and Risk Assessment on Social Practice (GRASP). This accreditation, which includes aquaculture and fish feed manufacturing as well as social issues, was awarded to three locations: two fish farms in Nabeul and Teboulba, and a fish feed manufacturing factory in Jemmel.
"This project demonstrates our commitment to expanding our aquaculture certification services into new regions, beginning with this significant collaboration in Tunisia. We hope that this is the start of many similar triumphs in Africa," said Xavière Lagadec, Global Aquaculture Manager at Business Assurance.
Groupe Méditerranée Aquaculture, founded in 2009, is a leader in Tunisia's aquaculture business. The firm is fully committed to sustainability and quality, with two divisions: one focusing on responsible fish farming, animal welfare, and product traceability, and the other on breakthrough technology and advanced aquaculture solutions. Their decision to collaborate with DNV Business Assurance for certification demonstrates their commitment to these values.
"Achieving this accreditation increases our position on the African continent, particularly in the food safety area. Our work locally already benefits hundreds of clients, and we intend to expand this further by qualifying more local experts to improve flexibility in our service delivery," Lagadec noted.
The project was further strengthened by the contributions of local and international experts. Dr. Wafa Ben Ajmia, Quality and Nutrition Director at Groupe Méditerranée Aquaculture, shared her strategic perspective: "Certification isn’t just a badge of honor for us—it’s a roadmap for continuous improvement. Through this rigorous process, we have built a stronger foundation for quality assurance and nutritional excellence, which is pivotal to both our success and the satisfaction of our stakeholders."
The project was further strengthened by the contributions of local and international experts. Emna Chaabani, Quality Manager at Medora Fish Farm, highlighted the benefits of certification: "The GLOBALG.A.P. certification has provided us with a structured framework that enhances our processes. It reinforces our commitment to animal welfare and environmental sustainability, ensuring our products meet international expectations while fostering innovation."
At Teboulba Tunisian Fish (TTF), Feriel Chaabi, the Quality Manager, reflected on her experience with DNV's certification process: "Working with DNV throughout the GLOBALG.A.P. and GRASP certification process was both rigorous and rewarding. Their structured approach and in-depth expertise helped us refine our operations to meet international standards. The certification has not only validated our practices but also provided us with a comprehensive framework that enhances our commitment to sustainability, food safety, and quality. DNV’s support was instrumental in helping us achieve this significant milestone, ensuring that we remain competitive in the global aquaculture market."
The company's GLOBALG.A.P. and GRASP certifications, obtained in August 2024, underscore its dedication to sustainable aquaculture and social responsibility. With zoo-sanitary and health approvals from relevant authorities, the farm meets the highest standards of food safety and animal welfare, while also promoting innovation through its skilled team of engineers and managers.
The relationship with Groupe Méditerranée Aquaculture represents an essential step forward in the continent's continuous aquaculture certification development. As the need for certification grows, programs like these open the door for more developments and possibilities for local industry participants, ensuring that African aquaculture flourishes sustainably and meets global standards.
"Our close collaboration with local auditors such as Enes Zahid Arslan, Hakima Moustatia, and Linda Jaballah from Morocco and Italy was instrumental in securing this win," stated Lynda Tezkratt, Africa Managing Director in Business Assurance. "It proves the strength of our multinational team and the growing interest in aquaculture certification across Africa."
Farah Boukedi, Quality Manager at Nutrifish, summarized her experience with the certification process: "Working with DNV has been a professional and collaborative experience. Their methodology has helped us streamline our operations while adhering to the highest standards of food safety and sustainability."
This achievement highlights the collaborative, global approach of DNV’s Business Assurance team and reinforces the trust and reliability of Groupe Méditerranée Aquaculture in the market. As the firm seeks to expand its market reach, this milestone will serve as a critical trust-building step, ensuring stakeholders that their products meet global standards.