Civil Society for Innovative and Inclusive Alternative Tourism in Tunisia

Recently founded in Djebba (Thibar delegation), the Social and Cultural Association is a local organization working in the field of sustainable development. It was created at the initiative of Mrs. Farida Djebbi, a committed civil society actor, in collaboration with Mr. Wafik Ouni, an entrepreneur in the alternative tourism sector, and Miss Roua Djebbi, a sociology student. Recently, the association was joined by Miss Hamida Djebbi, a tourism animator. The association has already organized several local environmental events in partnership with the Thibar municipality and the regional environmental delegation, as well as a day of awareness focused on climate change and the need to adapt to it. It is currently participating in the TANIT project, supported by the European Union and implemented by Leaders International – Tunisia in collaboration with the association MuseumLab, aimed at promoting alternative tourism through civil society initiatives. Convinced of the importance of citizen initiative, the Social and Cultural Association believes it is just as valuable as economic initiative. It actively seeks every possible opportunity to contribute to the region’s development and to help make it an attractive tourist destination.

Our association is committed to sustainable local development, placing people, territory, and resilience at the heart of its mission. Through the PETR – People Engaged for a Resilient Territory project, implemented with the support of the IUCN, we are actively working to build a circular economy around ecotourism circuits in the region of Oued Zen Tbainia and Aïn Zana (Aïn Draham). - The project focuses on empowering local communities by: - Training and equipping local hiking guides, enhancing the quality and professionalism of tourism services. - Integrating women farmers and artisans into the ecotourism routes, adding cultural richness and economic value to the visitor experience. - Developing a strategic marketing and commercial plan for existing circuits, including the launch of a dedicated e-commerce website to promote and sell local experiences and products. Our inclusive, participatory approach not only creates economic opportunities but also helps preserve the region’s natural and cultural heritage—paving the way for a more resilient and sustainable form of tourism.

The association is dedicated to promoting sustainable lifestyles and enhancing the natural, cultural, and touristic heritage of the Kef region through innovative and inclusive initiatives. Among its key activities: - Organizing four cycling tours, including three local and one national event, with the participation of local and international cyclists. These tours aim to encourage the use of bicycles for daily commuting and tourism, while raising awareness about reducing carbon emissions and adopting environmentally friendly transportation. - Hosting hiking and camping activities in some of the region’s most scenic and historically significant locations, such as Hammam Mellegue, Altiburus (Dahmani), and Sidi Mansour, providing immersive experiences in areas of ecological, geological, and cultural importance. - Organizing a paragliding event over the iconic Jugurtha Tableland, in collaboration with professional paragliders from Tunisia and abroad, to promote adventure tourism in the region. - Launching a photography project to document and showcase the region’s rich natural heritage, including its birds, wildlife, plant life, and unique landscapes. Participating in the organization of the Boumakhlouf International Festival, contributing to the cultural and artistic life of the region. Through these efforts, the association aims to position Kef as a leading destination for sustainable and eco-friendly tourism, engaging youth, experts, visitors, and local communities in the protection and celebration of this exceptional territory.

The association is committed to preserving and revitalizing local cultural and artisanal heritage through the creation of a touristic trail linking the "Cave of Arts" (Kahf El-Founoun) to the ancient city of Teboursouk. This initiative aims to breathe new life into the region by actively involving local residents in the revival of their territory. To achieve this, the association focuses on: - Reviving traditional crafts that are at risk of disappearing, such as weaving, pottery, and local culinary arts, by offering training to women and youth, and promoting ancestral skills. - Establishing an art gallery and a pocket theater, which will serve as dynamic platforms to preserve and share the region’s popular imagination and oral traditions, particularly through the storytelling art of the hakawati. - Encouraging participatory and alternative tourism, while creating sustainable economic opportunities for the local population. Through these actions, the association aims to spark cultural, social, and economic renewal in the region by drawing upon its rich intangible heritage and historical depth.

The Association is active in the field of local agricultural production. Its members play an active role in promoting their products by participating in fairs, training sessions, and local and national events. Recognizing that food heritage is a key component of ecotourism, the association is committed to highlighting and preserving it. It is currently preparing local and rural tourist circuits, in which the members’ artisanal and agricultural production will play a central role. Among the upcoming projects: – A collaboration with the Gene Bank. – The creation of a website and a mobile application for the group, aimed at promoting two tourist circuits in the regions of Mchareka and Ftenassa, with the support of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)

Founded in 2014, the Association for Renewal and Belonging (ARA) is an independent Tunisian organization working toward a more inclusive, engaged, and united society. Primarily active in the Béja region, ARA develops socially impactful projects in the areas of active citizenship, participatory democracy, youth inclusion, and sustainable local development. Our mission is to strengthen the engagement of young people and citizens in public life, support civil society, and contribute to building a future based on the values of renewal, diversity, and belonging. Our areas of focus: Promotion of citizenship and human rights Support for youth and employability Capacity building for associations Participatory local development Education for peace and diversity Our approach: ARA adopts a participatory, inclusive, and innovative approach, in collaboration with local, national, and international stakeholders. We believe that lasting change begins with collective action and community involvement.

As part of FNARA, our association is dedicated to environmental issues and youth empowerment. We led initiatives like the "Zero Waste" program at a local school, teaching students about waste management and sustainability. We also provide training and mentoring to help young people transition into the workforce. In 2023, we launched the "Keep_it_Green" project, promoting sustainable practices through workshops and awareness campaigns, fostering eco-conscious behaviors within the community.

The APMT is an active player in the development of sustainable, inclusive tourism and the promotion of local products in the Nefza region and northwestern Tunisia. Since 2017, APMT has collaborated with national and international partners such as COSPE and the Tunisia Ecotourism Network to implement innovative projects that combine environmental preservation, women’s empowerment, and local economic development. Our work includes: – Supporting women producers with tools and training to enhance local agricultural and artisanal production. – Designing and promoting eco-tourism circuits that highlight the region’s cultural and natural heritage. – Organizing awareness-raising events like hiking days, rural markets, and educational experiences in natural reserves. – Developing Shitana Trail, an internationally recognized trail-running event combining sport, culture, and eco-tourism, welcoming hundreds of athletes and visitors every year. – Creating eco-villages and craft markets during events to promote regional products and directly support local artisans — especially women. Through every initiative, APMT connects people with nature, tradition, and community. Our mission is clear: promote a model of rural tourism that is respectful, resilient, and rooted in local identity.

The main mission of the association is to promote environmental protection and sustainable development in the Nefza region and its surroundings by implementing projects focused on reforestation, environmental education, the valorization of local products, and eco-tourism. Since its establishment, it has successfully mobilized local and international partners to support its various initiatives.

The Sport Individuel Jendouba The association is committed to alternative and sustainable tourism by developing projects that combine sports, the preservation of cultural and natural heritage, and support for the local economy. It organizes eco-touristic excursions and hikes through preserved landscapes, highlighting historical sites and traditional villages while generating income for local guides. Cultural tours and craft workshops offer authentic experiences for both tourists and locals, preserving traditional skills and creating opportunities for local artists. Additionally, responsible sporting events such as marathons, boxing, and kickboxing competitions raise awareness about environmental protection, attract visitors, and stimulate the local economy. Finally, outdoor activities, eco-friendly workshops, and volunteer initiatives that combine sports and environmental efforts strengthen community involvement and promote the preservation of natural resources. These actions demonstrate how sport can be a powerful tool for promoting sustainable development and alternative tourism in Jendouba.

This association works to promote regional heritage while fostering social and economic inclusion. It is dedicated to initiatives such as supporting people with disabilities by integrating them into sustainable entrepreneurship, particularly in trades related to local heritage, to help them achieve autonomy and economic independence. The association also organizes events that highlight the region's culinary richness. For example, it recently hosted a tasting event in El Kef, welcoming over 150 guests to discover and enjoy traditional Kef dishes, as well as a brunch showcasing local specialties. These activities strengthen community ties while preserving and sharing ancestral traditions.

Initiative Kef is an association committed to supporting and assisting entrepreneurs and project creators through a dedicated network focused on financing and technical support. As a key player in local development, it actively contributes to several major initiatives. As part of the Tounes Wijhetouna project, the association works to diversify Tunisia’s tourism offerings by promoting heritage, supporting craftsmanship, and developing innovative and sustainable forms of tourism. Additionally, Initiative Kef plays a central role in the COPE project, carried out in collaboration with the Italian cooperation. This project aims to foster the social and economic inclusion of people with disabilities (PWD), thereby promoting equality of opportunity and greater inclusion within the community. Through these initiatives, Initiative Kef demonstrates its commitment to building a prosperous and inclusive future for the region and its people.

Femme Sans Frontières is an association committed to promoting Tunisia’s culinary, cultural, and natural heritage through sustainable, inclusive, and locally rooted initiatives. We take part in culinary events that showcase the richness of traditional Tunisian cuisine and the sustainable agricultural practices behind it. The association also organizes alternative and sustainable tourism activities for primary school children, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of preserving and valuing natural and cultural heritage. As part of our inclusive approach, many of our activities are designed to involve people with disabilities, including: – Artisanal workshops (pottery, weaving, accessory-making), – Participation in local festivals and cultural events, – Accessible experiences in alternative and eco-tourism. At Femme Sans Frontières, we believe in local development where tradition meets social innovation — and where everyone has a place.

Since 2019, Twiza has been dedicated to promoting tourism, culture, and social development in the Kef region by showcasing its rich heritage. The association fosters sustainable tourism through projects such as an eco-friendly cycling route (COP26) and a solidarity restaurant that supports the reintegration of former detainees. Twiza also facilitates youth access to culture through a dedicated center and leads inclusive initiatives, including an accessibility-focused strategic plan (OGP). By uniting local stakeholders around a shared approach to heritage management, the association is building a sustainable and responsible model for the region.

DMO Djerba is the organization responsible for managing and promoting the Djerba destination, highlighting its cultural, natural, and culinary heritage. Key Projects: Djerba Gourmande: Creation of the book "Les saveurs de Djerba", showcasing local cuisine, and development of portable recipes for visitors. Les Saveurs de Djerba: Promoting olive oil through tourist circuits around the historic "Fessili" olive mill and participatory workshops. Djerba World Heritage: Raising awareness of Djerba’s UNESCO World Heritage status to boost its international visibility. Tourist Information Offices: Renovation of the Midoun and Houmt Souk offices to provide information, sell souvenirs, and promote the Djerba Guide app. These projects aim to enhance Djerba’s attractiveness and global recognition while improving the visitor experience.

The Association for the Maintenance of Palaces and Heritage Preservation – Beni Khedache works to transform the region’s rich heritage into opportunities for sustainable development, with tourism as a key pillar. The area boasts diverse historical landmarks, cultural traditions, and stunning landscapes, making it ideal for alternative tourism. The association focuses on improving infrastructure, training local guides, promoting eco-friendly practices, and developing immersive experiences like olive harvesting and traditional crafts. Despite challenges like the lack of a national vision for alternative tourism, the association strives to position Beni Khedache as a unique and sustainable travel destination.

ASSIDJE is committed to preserving Djerba’s cultural and environmental heritage while promoting sustainable tourism. The association restores historical landmarks, develops a Sustainable Development Observatory, and publishes cultural guides to highlight the island’s rich history. Through the Destination Management Organisation (DMO) initiative, ASSIDJE enhances tourism governance and marketing. It also supports professional training and regulatory adaptations to foster alternative tourism. By integrating conservation, education, and responsible tourism, ASSIDJE aims to make Djerba a model for sustainable development.

Djerba Insolite is dedicated to promoting responsible and sustainable tourism on the island of Djerba. The association aims to create lasting jobs, preserve biodiversity, and offer travelers authentic experiences. By developing ecotourism and involving rural communities, it contributes to environmental protection and stimulates the local economy. While the association hopes to work with individuals with disabilities in the future, it has not yet had the opportunity to do so. Its goal is to build an inclusive and environmentally respectful future for all.

Ochak Sidi Madyan Association is driven by a deep commitment to revitalizing and promoting the unique heritage of Sidi Madyan. Our mission is to restore the region’s former glory while preserving its authenticity and ensuring the sustainability of its rich cultural and environmental legacy. Through various development initiatives, we aim to boost the local economy, foster entrepreneurship, and engage diverse stakeholders in meaningful dialogue about cultural and environmental awareness. We also believe in Sidi Madyan’s potential as a hub for cultural tourism, eco-tourism, and outdoor adventures, offering visitors a truly immersive experience. By combining preservation with innovation, we are confident that our efforts will strengthen both the social and economic fabric of the region, creating new opportunities for local communities while safeguarding its invaluable heritage for future generations. Together, we can make Sidi Madyan shine once again.

Our association is dedicated to making eco-tourism a driver of sustainable development for Sidi Madyan. We aim to enhance the visitor experience by creating activities that combine nature, culture, sports, and heritage, while highlighting the region’s authenticity. By working closely with various stakeholders, including local communities, we strive to boost the rural economy and promote a tourism approach that respects both the environment and local traditions. Through this initiative, we want to offer visitors a unique and immersive experience while ensuring a positive and lasting impact on the region.

Our association focuses on building a comprehensive database of tourism stakeholders in the Sidi Madyan region. By fostering synergies and collaboration, we create opportunities for these actors to work together and strengthen the local tourism ecosystem. We actively participate in and promote regional tourism activities, enhancing the visibility of Sidi Madyan as a must-visit destination. Through strategic partnerships and participation in international events like ITB Berlin 2023, we aim to position Sidi Madyan on the global tourism map, highlighting its unique offerings to a wider audience.

The Association for the Preservation of the Tunkt Palace Area is committed to transforming the Tunkt village palace into a key tourist destination by enhancing the cultural and historical heritage of the village. The association works on creating tourist trails and organizing events and festivals that attract visitors, while actively involving local youth and rural women in its initiatives. Through its efforts, the association has played a significant role in organizing festivals that have helped raise awareness of the village’s rich heritage and increased its visibility as a vibrant cultural hub.

The FTADD (Fédération Tunisienne des Associations de Développement du Dahar) is deeply committed to enhancing the Dahar region’s tourism potential and sustainable development. As part of the Destination Dahar Project, funded by SECO and implemented by Swisscontact, the association actively participated in the concept and preparatory work for the "Geopark Dahar" project, which aims to highlight the region's unique geological and cultural heritage. FTADD’s efforts were also recognized globally when Destination Dahar was honored in the "Green Destination TOP 100" competition as the best destination in the world under the theme "Culture & Community 2021/2022". Additionally, the association is a proud member of the Tunisian Culinary Route Network, a project supported by GIZ, promoting Tunisia’s rich culinary heritage as a key element of its cultural tourism.

AGIM Kef offers activities that support the professional integration of people with disabilities through: -The fabrication of the Tunisian presidential flag – Meticulous crafting of flags in various models, ensuring precision and excellence. -The creation of artisanal decorative items – Designing unique handcrafted pieces inspired by Tunisian heritage, highlighting the artisans' talent and creativity. -These activities help participants develop their skills, thrive professionally, and contribute to preserving local craftsmanship.

GDA KOUNOUZ DJEBBA specializes in the transformation of local agricultural products, primarily figs and wild blackberries, and is skilled in preparing local dishes (especially couscous) with the addition of dried figs. On occasion, they collaborate with local events such as festivals, awareness days, WAFIK OUNI hikes, etc., to prepare meals. Through cooperation with the Tanit project, they hope to receive support to enhance their collective catering services by setting up a kitchen in the form of a lightweight structure in DJEBBA park (geodesic dome), preparing the terrace, and acquiring food service supplies, chairs, tables, plates, etc. There is also a future project idea dependent on completing the Astrocamping project, which will provide 30 beds. This involves selling the artisanal experience of various jams, figs, blackberries, prickly pears, and other seasonal products. The proposal from WAFIK OUNI suggests inviting those interested in preparing their children's annual jam needs themselves, using a safe homemade method in terms of cleanliness and healthy in terms of preservative additives, to visit the village, harvest the fruits, and transform them under the supervision of experts from GDA KOUNOUZ DJEBBA. We believe this will be an exceptional and successful experience, with a positive psychological impact on the participating children, especially since they are central to the idea

This association aims to create job opportunities for both its members and the wider community through various initiatives focused on sustainable rural development. It will organize specialized training sessions in tomato processing and preservation, contributing to the promotion of local agricultural production. By encouraging agriculture, the association will help revitalize the region, enhance its environmental sustainability, and increase its appeal as a tourist destination. Additionally, the association will support handicrafts and manual work, highlighting traditional skills and craftsmanship. Through this framework, Tunisian rural women will be empowered to assert their economic and social roles within a globalized world, becoming key players in their communities and ambassadors of their cultural heritage.

The Culture and Work Sports Organization is a national body dedicated to promoting tourism, culture, and outdoor sports across Tunisia through inclusive and impactful events. One of its flagship initiatives is the Zaghouan Tlemna Festival, a collaborative effort that unites civil society and dynamic youth groups from the Zaghouan region. This festival has become a unique platform to celebrate local heritage, nature, and community spirit. The Zaghouan Tlemna initiative is supported by key partners including: Culture and Work Sports Organization, DMO (Destination Management Organization), JCI, Zaghouan Aventures, Zaghouan Services Express, Camping Zaghouan,Yassine Roueg

The Tunisian Women’s Olive Oil Association is dedicated to promoting Tunisian olive oil as a product of excellence and a driver of sustainable economic, cultural, and tourism development. The association places women at the heart of this movement, supporting their active role in production, the preservation of ancestral know-how, and local innovation. Through the creation of the Olive Oil Tourism Route, the association offers a unique circuit that connects olive farms, oil mills, and local producers. This immersive experience invites visitors to discover the authenticity of Tunisian terroirs—through harvests, traditional gastronomy, and rich cultural heritage. The association is committed to: Diversifying tourism offers by integrating culinary workshops, rural hikes, guided visits, and educational experiences around olive oil. Empowering local and women-led entrepreneurship by supporting artisans, small producers, and improving access to financing. Creating sustainable jobs within local communities, especially for women in rural areas. Organizing national and international events, such as DIDO International, to enhance the global recognition of Tunisian olive oil. Promoting cultural and agricultural heritage, making Tunisian identity shine through its local products and time-honored traditions. By bringing together local communities, international experts, and travelers in search of authenticity, the Tunisian Women’s Olive Oil Association stands as a key driver of responsible olive tourism and territorial innovation in Tunisia.

Recently founded in Djebba (Thibar delegation), the Social and Cultural Association is a local organization working in the field of sustainable development. It was created at the initiative of Mrs. Farida Djebbi, a committed civil society actor, in collaboration with Mr. Wafik Ouni, an entrepreneur in the alternative tourism sector, and Miss Roua Djebbi, a sociology student. Recently, the association was joined by Miss Hamida Djebbi, a tourism animator. The association has already organized several local environmental events in partnership with the Thibar municipality and the regional environmental delegation, as well as a day of awareness focused on climate change and the need to adapt to it. It is currently participating in the TANIT project, supported by the European Union and implemented by Leaders International – Tunisia in collaboration with the association MuseumLab, aimed at promoting alternative tourism through civil society initiatives. Convinced of the importance of citizen initiative, the Social and Cultural Association believes it is just as valuable as economic initiative. It actively seeks every possible opportunity to contribute to the region’s development and to help make it an attractive tourist destination.

Our association is committed to sustainable local development, placing people, territory, and resilience at the heart of its mission. Through the PETR – People Engaged for a Resilient Territory project, implemented with the support of the IUCN, we are actively working to build a circular economy around ecotourism circuits in the region of Oued Zen Tbainia and Aïn Zana (Aïn Draham). - The project focuses on empowering local communities by: - Training and equipping local hiking guides, enhancing the quality and professionalism of tourism services. - Integrating women farmers and artisans into the ecotourism routes, adding cultural richness and economic value to the visitor experience. - Developing a strategic marketing and commercial plan for existing circuits, including the launch of a dedicated e-commerce website to promote and sell local experiences and products. Our inclusive, participatory approach not only creates economic opportunities but also helps preserve the region’s natural and cultural heritage—paving the way for a more resilient and sustainable form of tourism.

The association is dedicated to promoting sustainable lifestyles and enhancing the natural, cultural, and touristic heritage of the Kef region through innovative and inclusive initiatives. Among its key activities: - Organizing four cycling tours, including three local and one national event, with the participation of local and international cyclists. These tours aim to encourage the use of bicycles for daily commuting and tourism, while raising awareness about reducing carbon emissions and adopting environmentally friendly transportation. - Hosting hiking and camping activities in some of the region’s most scenic and historically significant locations, such as Hammam Mellegue, Altiburus (Dahmani), and Sidi Mansour, providing immersive experiences in areas of ecological, geological, and cultural importance. - Organizing a paragliding event over the iconic Jugurtha Tableland, in collaboration with professional paragliders from Tunisia and abroad, to promote adventure tourism in the region. - Launching a photography project to document and showcase the region’s rich natural heritage, including its birds, wildlife, plant life, and unique landscapes. Participating in the organization of the Boumakhlouf International Festival, contributing to the cultural and artistic life of the region. Through these efforts, the association aims to position Kef as a leading destination for sustainable and eco-friendly tourism, engaging youth, experts, visitors, and local communities in the protection and celebration of this exceptional territory.

The association is committed to preserving and revitalizing local cultural and artisanal heritage through the creation of a touristic trail linking the "Cave of Arts" (Kahf El-Founoun) to the ancient city of Teboursouk. This initiative aims to breathe new life into the region by actively involving local residents in the revival of their territory. To achieve this, the association focuses on: - Reviving traditional crafts that are at risk of disappearing, such as weaving, pottery, and local culinary arts, by offering training to women and youth, and promoting ancestral skills. - Establishing an art gallery and a pocket theater, which will serve as dynamic platforms to preserve and share the region’s popular imagination and oral traditions, particularly through the storytelling art of the hakawati. - Encouraging participatory and alternative tourism, while creating sustainable economic opportunities for the local population. Through these actions, the association aims to spark cultural, social, and economic renewal in the region by drawing upon its rich intangible heritage and historical depth.

The association is actively involved in the development of sustainable tourism in the Jendouba region, in northwestern Tunisia, bringing together local stakeholders around a shared vision: to enhance the region’s natural and human resources through ecotourism. Key initiatives include: The signposting of the "Belle Forêt" ecotourism trail between Beni Mtir and Ain Draham, aimed at improving access and showcasing the area’s natural beauty. The organization of participatory eco-construction workshops, encouraging community engagement and the adoption of environmentally friendly building techniques. The training of local ecotourism guides, in partnership with IUCN-Med, to strengthen local capacity and promote professional standards in the sector. The support of micro-ecotourism projects in areas such as Beni Mtir and Ain Draham, fostering local entrepreneurship and creating sustainable economic opportunities. The association’s vision is built on four key strategic pillars: The development of a charter to ensure responsible governance of ecotourism activities. The creation of reliable and effective communication strategies to promote the region’s ecotourism potential. The establishment of a "Sustainable Tourism Destination" brand identity for the northwest of Tunisia. Lobbying and advocacy efforts to address major challenges facing the ecotourism sector in the region. Through these efforts, the association aims to position Jendouba as a national and international model for sustainable tourism, blending environmental conservation, local empowerment, and social innovation.