The second edition of the international event “Nefzawa City,” held on February 13th and 14th, 2025, at the Higher Institute of Technological Studies in Kebili, celebrated the launch of two groundbreaking initiatives: the first global network for media and sustainable development, and the first national network for women cooperatives focused on promoting local products.
- Global Network for Media and Sustainable Development
The launch of this pioneering network brings together media outlets from across Africa and France, including Morocco, Algeria, Mauritania, Ivory Coast, and others. African media leaders will sign the charter to officially become members, marking the beginning of a new era of collaboration aimed at enhancing responsible and impactful journalism for regional development.
This initiative was unveiled on World Radio Day (February 13th) during a series of panels, workshops, and discussions as part of Nefzawa City, aligned with UNESCO’s 2025 theme: “Radio and Climate Change.”
2. National Network for Women Cooperatives
In collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Water Resources, and Fishing, the Rural Women’s Department, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry for the Southeastern Region, and other international partners, Nefzawa City also announced the creation of the first national network for women cooperatives. This network aims to economically empower rural women by boosting the competitiveness of their local products and creating new marketing opportunities both nationally and internationally.
Twenty women’s organizations from Kebili, Gafsa, Gabes, Tataouine, Manouba, Béja, Kasserine, and Zaghouan have shown interest in joining this network. A formal agreement has been signed with partner organizations to launch the initiative and develop a collaborative action plan.
As part of the event, the “Treasures of the Regions” exposition provided local producers and cooperatives with a platform to showcase and market their products. This exposition encouraged partnerships between local business owners and potential investors, strengthening the economic impact of the event.
With over 1,500 participants, including public institutions, national and international organizations, civil society groups, 50 journalists, and experts from various fields, “Nefzawa City” has successfully laid the foundation for institutionalizing the event for future editions.
Organized by the Nefzawa Groupment, the event has positioned Kebili governorate as the central hub for the intersection of investment, media, and culture for sustainable development.