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The Kabyle Woman

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    In our ancient customs, the Amazigh woman in general, and the Kabyle woman in particular, has been respected as a woman. The ancient Kabyle society was based on a strict division of roles, rights and duties between men and women. The masculine and feminine worlds were separated, but the woman was respected. The mistress of the house was considered the pillar of the family. The man attended things: hard work in the fields, getting to the market and managing money of the family. In principle, the woman stayed at home. She led the house and raised the children. She took care of the animals, made pottery and weaving. She also took over the tasks of collecting water and collecting wood. When they have free time, women have visited one another in their homes. The woman also held the role of mediator between the father and the children, who then does not have to get involved in discussions with their father. The latter was the leader of the family in the strict sense of the term: he is the guardian of his family, honor, but he can hardly ignore the advice of his wife. When the situation is particularly critical, we turn to women. When there was a severe drought, the Anzar procession, conducted to get rain, was their responsibility. If there was a fear of a curse in the village, it was the women who initiated Timzeght, the sacrifice of an ox.

    In ancient history, the Amazigh woman has always had an important role and are sometimes royal heads of state (the Kahina of the Aures Mountains and Fadma N Summer of Kabylia always inspiring the pride of the Kabyle people). Women also played an important role in tribal conflicts. Often, before the war, the tribes sent delegations of women who attempted a last negotiation, often with success.

    In the ancestral Kabyle tradition, women always commanded the greatest respect from their community. They participated in family decision-making, economic rights, education, etc. They have always retained the right to preserve the cultural traditions of their peoples. They have actively participated in important community decisions. However, the current situation shows that she is far from being respected with her legitimate rights; she is attacked in her daily life verbally, physically, symbolically, psychologically, etc. Women still suffer from forced marriages which become basically the norm in the Kabyle community. In Islam the woman has the right to have a share of inheritance but such right had been taken away hundreds of years ago.So,it is time to face reality in the face of certain values called kabyles honor (nif, tirougza, lherma ... etc).

  The Kabyle woman is known for her strong character and insubordination .She has never stopped fighting to be heard and respected. While she is faced with a traditional system that time has proved not to be egalitarian, she must fight even harder when faced with the Arab-Islamic Algerian regime. Indignant , since the day after the creation of Algeria's independence that the new state was so ungrateful to her and to the sacrifices she made during the liberation war. She learned to defend herself without recourse to the political legitimacy that the men of the reform regime of their alleged participation in this war. They no longer want to do armed violence regardless of the source of legitimacy it may be.   

   Despite all of these obstacles, the Amazigh women of Algeria, specifically Kabyle women, have gained ground in recent years, even if, there are lots things left to do to restore the women rights in accordance with their aspirations. It is very crucial to open a dialogue among institutions and civil society, including women’s associations in particular to eliminate all forms of discrimination against women.

The Kabyle Woman (written by ARAB Sabrina)


The Tuareg Tent

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   The tent represents an important symbol for the nomadic Tuareg cultural heritage. It is a central element within family and social relations in the Tuareg society. The Tuareg tent reflects a lot of values; it is there that one lives, eats, drinks tea and sleep. Alongside tea (the drink) and dromedary (the animal), the tent symbolizes the refuge and is one of the three pillars of Tuareg life. Its form remains faithful to ancestral traditions, while other elements have often been modernized.

   The traditional tent was originally woven by the women. It is made with dromedary hair, sheep's hair or woven goat hair. This mode of weaving still persists but is very rare because of its high manufacturing cost. Current families therefore tend to buy canvas tents, known as "Kaitoun", which are much more economical. It is designed in a triangular shape to avoid rainwater infiltration and resist storms .Tent is composed of two pillars linked together with a rope; the tent is fixed to the ground with stakes called "Akhoualaf". It traditionally provides separate spatial units between men and women, that is to say, the tent consists of part for women, the other for men and a space most often reserved for prayer and receives guests. It is designed to be easily mounted or disassembled. It is mounted with height because it symbolizes generosity, so that the passenger can see it from afar, and thus be assured and reassured to find shelter and protection.

   Tuaregs learned to build and orient their tents from their ancestral. According to the Tuaregs’ beliefs, the north of the tent is considered harmful because evil beings called kel-esuf "those of solitude" crowded in large numbers, especially at dusk, while the south is charged with blessing. For them, in other words, in the south there are fertile areas from which their millet comes, while in the north there is only desert and hunger. This belief is also well displayed in the conjugal bed; the man is placed in the north to protect his wife against the kel-esuf. That is why, on wedding day, the groom must enter the nuptial tent by the north, and the bride by the south. Again, the same applies to when God created the world, he placed Adam to the north and Eve to the south. Moreover, the Tuareg woman is always compared to the tent among the Tuareg region .She is called the guardian of the tent. This society make a feminine domain to protect them from this supernatural danger because of their affinity with the tent, women are more naturally protected. The tents belong to women. When a mother marries her daughter, she donates her own tent or takes care of her until to make a tent. The young bride comes to install in the camp of her husband .In the Tuareg society, the man finds a tent when he takes a wife, but, if he becomes an old man, or in case of divorce or widowhood ,this brings him back to the precarious position of adolescents who go without a tent. Thus, the wearing of the veil means that a lot of men are deprived  of tents .The men are thus somehow outside the tent, this tent, of which we have seen that the camps are mobile and incessantly composed and decomposed according to the marriages and divorces.

The Tuareg Tent (Written by ARAB Sabrina)

Behind every kabyle man, a strong woman

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  Fadhma Si Ahmed Ou Meziane, known as Lalla Fadhma(Fatma) N'Soumer (1830 - 1863) is a Kabyle woman and a brave fighter who resisted the conquest of Algeria by France in the 1850.She is from a conservative marabout (where man dominated and still dominates) family that was connected by its social and religious conduct to the brotherhood of Rahmanya, from the village of Ouerja. Her father is Sidi Mohammed Ben Aïssa, the head of a Quranic school and her mother is Lalla Khadidja. She had four elder brothers. She received a religious education at early age that what distinguished her from the girls of her generation, including exceptional beauty and refined education. When she reached the age of sixteen, her father married her to her cousin. But on the day of her marriage, she pretended to be ill, and her husband sent her back to her parents, refusing the divorce. She remained under his tutelage throughout his life. She opted for a life of asceticism and devoted herself to prayer and devotion, deepening her theological knowledge and taking over the affairs of the zaouia Rahmanya in Ouerja village. After the death of her father, she left her native village and went to Soumer where her elder brother Si Tahar resided. Lalla Fatma N'Soumer was influenced by his elder brother who mastered the various religious and objective sciences. She acquired from him the various theological necessary knowledge and her reputation spread throughout all the regions of Kabylia. She was considered as a Berber prophetess or a Muslim druid.

    Fadhma N'Summer is the heroine of the kabyle resistance to French occupation by the armies of Marshal Randon, over the years1850-1857. Since his youth, she had grown up in hatred of colonialism and resistance against him. Her resistance to colonialism, in which she displayed exceptional courage and heroism, was unusually violent. When French troops entered the region of Djurdjura (mountain range north of Kabylia), Cherif Boubaghla, initiated a great movement of popular Kabyle revolt. Fadhma joins him immediately, firstly in collecting the useful food for the insurgents, then actively taking part in the defense of the country. Without arms, she exhorted, rallied, and inspired the troops, which she led to the combat. She participated in the men's assemblies, winning the title of Lalla, honorary title reserved for women because of their age or rank, like the title Sidi for men. During one of the battles she showed exceptional courage to save Sherif Boubaghla who had remained in the village of Soumeur during the first confrontation that took place in the village of Tezrouts between the troops of General Maissiat and the inhabitants. However, the latter were forced to retreat after a fierce resistance because of the imbalance of the relationship of forces materially and humanly. She provided Sherif Boubaghla with the necessary care when he was wounded during the battle.

   After the death of Sherif Boubaghla (1854), she continued the struggle and recorded several victories against the enemy to her credit. As an example, in 1854, in Oued Sebaou, Fadhma(at the age of 24) gave to the French army a lesson of determination and courage. Thus, Fadhma proved that the conduct of the Algerian resistance was not the exclusive domain of the men but that even the women participated. 

The French then demanded reinforcements, and in 1857 the Kabylian insurgents found themselves facing an army of 35,000 men. Fadhma calls her troops to fight till the end to protect the country's freedom, but she loses the battle. She was arrested on 27 July 1857 in Takhlijt Ath Atsou village near Tirourda, and imprisoned. The trial of her imprisonment, the frustration of not being able to lead his people to victory and the insults which she undergoes, affects her and deteriorates her health. She died in captivity at the age of 33 in 1863

   Lalla Fadhma N'Soumer proved to be a force to be reckoned with, a girl with her own way of thinking and in later years a woman that was revered by others and became a legendary figure. Lalla Fadhma N'Soumer became synonymous with the Kabyle Resistance Movement and was a key figure in the fight against the French invasion. Her bravery is still alive in songs and depictions in the country, especially among kabyle people. In 1995, her remains were moved from the cemetery of Sidi Abdellah and reburied in El Alia (in Algiers), the martyrs ' cemetery.

Behind every kabyle man, a strong woman (Written by ARAB Sabrina)

The M’Zab Towns

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Beni Izguen

The M’Zab Valley is situated in the Algerian Province of Ghardaia in the Sahara desert .It is made up of five towns: Melika, Beni Izguen, Bou Nara, El Atteuf and Ghardaia where the women clad entirely in white and show one eye only. It is Four hundred miles south of Algiers, just over an hour by plane and it is one of the towns of the UNESCO World Heritage. 

   The M'Zab valley is the absolute centre of the Algerian desert. In such hostile natural environment, the M’Zab people have managed to construct a society that is strict but close-knit, devout but not fundamentalist. With all the rigor of which they are capable, these devout Muslims dug out deep wells from the rock over several generations so that their sons and the sons of their sons could benefit from them. They fertilized this hostile environment, planted date palms, created orchards and luxuriant gardens, developed irrigation channels and ingenious systems for gathering and storing rainwater so that to lose no drop because water for them is a gift from God that should be reserved.

Ghardaia

    It is here, in the M’Zab valley that the Algerian Sahara begins, setting in amidst rocky and stony ground. As if by magic, five towns emerged from the emptiness.  The valley includes five unique "ksour"(castles) in fortified villages. Their architecture is original because adapted to the rather hostile environment of this rocky plateau. The M’Zab buildings  are stunning example of Berber architecture which very clearly demonstrate the diverse range of cultures that have come together to make up Algeria. Among the most remarkable oases of the M'Zab valley is that of Ghardaia which is considered the capital of the region and the final city before plunging into the largest desert in the world. It is home to a stunning labyrinthine Kasbah (medina) which is well worthy of a visit. It was founded by the Mozabites, a sect of Berber Muslims. This cultural, racial, and religious history becomes tangible by the presence of this stunning architectural relic. 

   The unusual architectural beauty of this strange cluster of dwellings and towns is what makes this UNESCO World Heritage Site so special. Buildings are densely packed, replete with twisting and turning narrow alleyways, covered walkways and pastel colored paint. The visual impact is truly impressive, situated as they are in a deep and narrow valley. Having been established by a breakaway Islamic sect some 1000 years ago, they were designed for communal living, an intention which is clear to see to this day.

     You can visit this awesome place and stay in one of Algeria's most delightful hotels, situated in the greenest of oases in this old city and enjoy Beni Izguen, the "holy city" which is the most traditional of all the villages of the M'Zab Valley ,and Ghardaia city with its market square the "four-fingered" mosque, the tombs of the M'Zab's religious leaders and a date farm with a centuries, old irrigation system , a magnum opus of democratic engineering…  

The M’Zab Towns (Written by ARAB Sabrina)

Macron in a Visit to Algeria

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     Wednesday, the 6th of December, the French president Emmanuel Macron organized his first official visit to Algeria since his presidency .He is arrived to the international airport of Houari Boumediene in Algiers at 10:45 PM. He is received with warm greetings by the Head of the Nation Board, Abd el Kader Bensalah, on behalf of the president Abdelaziz Bouteflika who suffers from health problems, with the company of other Algerian ministers.

   Macron has accompanied with the diplomacy chief Jean Yves Le Drian and his minister of action and public accounts Gérard Darmanin. Interviews are provided with the Algerian Prime Minister Ahmed Ouyahia and with Abd el Kader Bensalah .A meeting is also programmed with the Algerian president Abdelaziz Bouteflika in his residence in Zeralda (Algiers).


  Large campaigns have spread on the social media advocating Algerians to refuse Macro’s visit to their country. Algeria which was once a French colony has suffered a lot from the French colonialism,  and France still refusing to acknowledge its crimes in Algeria as a crime against humanity. Thus, Algerians are demanding, first of all, an official recognition, apology and compensation for the cruelty of the French colonialism that had transcended all the limits since 1830 until 1962, before seeking the French economical interests in their own country. Eventually, the historical matter between Algeria and France are the most sensitive issues between these two countries. Emmanuel Macron asked to turn the page “tourner la page”, calling to discuss the relations between the two countries which often overwhelmed by historical disputes related to colonialism. His visit carries a letter of the president of the new generation, a letter of new relationships with Algeria, he says: “I know the history, but I am not a hostage of the past”. Actually, we wait a lot from the Macro’s visit to Algeria concerning this issue since he is the only French president who declares such attitudes toward the cruelty and crimes of the French colonialism in Algeria. 

   He said “I’m here in Algeria as a friend partner; I want to build and promote the links between the two countries in the coming years. He added “new relationship which based on the reciprocity frankness and ambition”. He is expected to discuss the economical projects partnership and seek to promote the French position in the Algerian market through trade and calling Algeria for more investments in the French projects in order to reduce the unemployment rate in the country and thus compensating and reviving the Algerian economy as a result of the decline in oil prices in the international markets. 

Eid El Kebir Celebration in Algeria

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    Eid El Kebir or Eid El Adha (sheep's day or feast of the sacrifice) is one of the most important festivals of Islam. It is called Thafaska in Tamazight.  It takes place every year on the 10th of the month of Dhou El Hijja which is the last month of the Muslim calendar and the end of the pilgrimage (El Hajj). The day of celebration of Eid El-Kebir varies geographically depending on when the moon is observed, because the Muslim calendar does not allow knowing precisely, in advance, the days of celebration. This celebration commemorates the Prophet Abraham's willingness to offer his son Ishmael (Ismail) as a sacrifice to God who ordered him to sacrifice him. Ibrahim did not hesitate to sacrifice his son Ismail to show his submission to God, who then sent him a sacrificial sheep to spare him the sacrifice of his own son. Ibrahim is thus a model of the true believer for Muslims. He is also the first Muslim and one of the messengers of God. The message of the Prophet Muhammad returns to the traditions of Ibrahim that is why Muslims celebrate Eid El-Kebir every year.

  On this day, the elders of families sacrifice a sheep according to Muslim rites and share the meat with their families, friends and the poor. In other words, this festival, which is more than just a religious event, is an opportunity to bring together and meet with family, neighbours and friends around a good meal prepared with the sacrificial sheep meat. Above all, it is also synonymous with sharing and generosity towards the poor and the needy. 

  The Algerian government pays huge importance to this celebration .Thus, the national herd receives special attention from the public authorities, who make every effort to improve and develop the red meats sector. Among their initiatives and procedures, in each Eid, they announce the implementation of a comprehensive prevention and awareness program for livestock producers to protect livestock against various diseases throughout the year, accompanied by an intensive vaccination campaign. The public authorities deploy, in every year, veterinarians in slaughter sites and in various places of selling the livestock to monitor and respond to the needs and solicitations of citizens .Also, they assign veterinary teams to take samples of sheep heads and meat for analysis and control of the foods they serve. And most of all to ban the use of dietary supplements to fatten livestock by seasonal traders for profit cause this affect the quality of sheep meat and cause sicknesses to the individuals. Besides, the Prohibition of the anarchic sale of sheep in the Algerian streets, instead, they allocate specific sites for selling and the breeders should obtain authorization to sell their livestock.


 In order to respect hygiene and public health, the authorities are instructed to recover the carcasses and organs seized as well as the detritus (straw, horns, hooves and buzzard …) to landfill and incineration. 

The prices of sheep vary from one year to another, it depends on the cost of cattle feed. Thus, each family has to save money in order to be able to celebrate their Eid with a sheep.

  Unlike the festival of Aid El Sghir (the one that marks the end of Ramadan), the Algerian families do not prepare many cakes in Eid El Kbir, instead they prepare delicious plates from the meat of the sheep. The dishes which are prepared in this day differ from one family to another and from one region to another. In general, the first day is often reserved for cooking offal such as Kebda, Bouzellouf (head and the leg of the sheep) and Douara. On the second day the couscous is mostly honored; in my family we have a tradition of making the kabyle famous dish Taasbant or Tikerbabines which is made of semolina and vegetables with the sheep shoulders and a good couscous with vegetables and meat. In other families, they prepare Chakhchoukha and Trida or stuffed Osbane with sheep meat. On the third day is reserved for grilling: skewers, melfouf, steak or grilled chops and roasted meat in the oven served with various vegetables and salads. It is for sure that these dishes are always accompanied by good bread or several homemade.

In short, each family has its own way for celebrating this special day through specific and different dishes.

Eid El Kebir Celebration in Algeria (Written by ARAB Sabrina)

Djemila, an Outstanding Universal Value

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   Djemila means "beautiful" in Arabic and its antique name is Cuicul, set on a rocky spur which spreads at an altitude of 900 m above sea-level, between  Guergour and  Betame valley, about 30 miles from Setif  province. It is one of North Africa's most monumental sites. It was founded by the emperor Nerva Trajan in the first century as a Roman military garrison and as home to his veterans. In 1982, Djemila became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. UNESCO refers to it as one of the most stunning and beautiful Roman ruins in the world. 

   Undoubtedly, Djemila is the best well-known Roman cities in Algeria and the most well preserved and impressive. It is an outstanding example of a Roman urban architecture; with its defensive system, public convenience, triumphal arches, forum, temples, basilicas, churches, streets and houses .It is really an interesting example of Roman town planning adapted to constraints of the mountainous site. It includes also an impressive theatre, two fora, and stunning museum, where every square inch of the immense walls are plastered with mosaics, making for an intriguing and breathtaking visual view which illustrates the mythological tales and scenes of their daily life.

    Djemila bears an exceptional testimony to a civilization which has disappeared. It is one of the world's most beautiful Roman ruins. The archaeological vestiges, the well integrated Roman urban planning and the surrounding environment comprise the elements that represent the values attributed to this site. The site has also been marked by Christianity in the form of several cult buildings such as the cathedral, the church and its baptistery. The city was initially populated by a colony of Roman soldiers from Italy, and eventually grew to become a large trading market. The resources that contributed to the economic prosperity of the city were essentially agricultural (cereals, olive trees and farms).

   Djemila is among the World Heritage List since it contains all the elements necessary to express its universal value. The archaeological vestiges bear true and credible testimony to Roman town components such as the classic plan of the urban Roman town and architecture such as construction methods (roads, gates, aqueduct, colonnaded temple, theatre, etc.), decoration (bas-reliefs, borders and pediments, capitals of columns, mosaics, etc) and construction material (stone, mosaic, ceramics, etc.) that represent the outstanding universal value of the property. 

    In recent years, some restoration work on the mosaics in the museum has been carried out because the site is one of the Algeria‘s coolest ruins and represents an Algerian cultural heritage that must be protected. Each year, 30.000 visitors and some 15.000 students visit the site. The need for funds and international assistance is still very important for the implementation of the management plan and presentation of the site as a cultural heritage. The protection measures include the construction of a peripheral fence around the site, the restoration of damaged mosaics and the renovation of the site museum.  Although deterioration causes increasing damage to the fragile archaeological structures, the values of this Roman colony are globally well conserved.

Djemila, an Outstanding Universal Value (Written by ARAB Sabrina)

The Algerian Education System

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   The Algerian education system is divided into several levels: preparatory, basic (primary, middle), secondary, vocational and higher education. It is also necessary to take into account the continuing education provided by the University of Continuing Education. The Ministry of Education is responsible for the organization and management of the primary, middle and secondary levels, the management of higher education is entrusted to the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research ,and the professional level is entrusted to the Ministry of Education and Vocational Training. The headquarters of Ministry of Education is located in El Mouradia, Algiers. It is headed by the minister of education Nouria Benghabrit Remaoun, since 5 May 2014 till now. The Algerian Constitution guarantees the right to education for all citizens. The school is compulsory from the age of six and free of charge from first year of school to university.   

   Classical Arabic is the compulsory language of instruction in the Algerian schools. French is taught from the third year onwards, it is also the language of instruction for advanced mathematics and science courses. English is taught from the first year at middle school. Students can also learn Spanish, Italian or German at secondary level. The Tamazight language (Berber language) became a national language registered in the Algerian constitution, thus since 2005, it was studied at primary, middle and even at the secondary school. 
     The Algerian Education provides pre-school education for children aged three to six years. It is taught in preparatory schools or in kindergarten classes at primary schools. The main objective of pre-board education is the integration of the child, gradually, into the school environment through attractive and appropriate games to introduce him to the first elements of reading, writing and calculation and to develop his practice of language through communication situations induced by the proposed activities and games. But seen the non-compulsory nature of pre-school education, the State has made a commitment to ensure the development of this education and to continue the generalization gradually.

    Primary education is for a period of five years. The age of admission to primary school is fixed at six years of age. The purpose of primary school is to help children to master the basics of reading, writing and numeracy. Moreover, its aim is to promote the development of personality in pupils and to create good habits by training them in community life. The end of primary school education is culminated by a final examination leading to the issuance of a certificate of achievement called "Certificate of Primary Education". 

    The middle school is a period of four years. At the end of schooling in the middle school and after a final examination entitled to obtain a diploma called "Certificate of Basic Education", the pupils are automatically admitted to the first general and technological secondary year, according to their wishes. Pupils who are not admitted have the possibility of joining either vocational training or working life if they have reached the age of sixteen years. The aim of fundamental  education is to equip students with essential learning to develop their identity in harmony with social, spiritual , ethical values and traditions arising from the common cultural heritage, to embrace the values of citizenship and the demands of life in society , to develop their sensitivity and to sharpen their aesthetic sense; their curiosity; their imagination; their creativity and their critical thinking to understand the living and the world and to learn to observe and solve problems.

   Secondary education is for a period of three years. It is divided into general secondary education that consists of five specialties: the exact sciences, the sciences of nature and life, humanities and letters, literature and living language, and religious sciences .The technical secondary education includes the following specialties: electronics, electrical engineering, mechanics, public works and construction, chemistry and accounting techniques. General secondary education and technical secondary education vary in the following specialties: mechanical engineering, electrical engineering,  management, and economics. The orientation of pupils in the first year of secondary school towards the technical or general specialties of secondary education is done at the end of the year according to their wishes and their results.  The end of schooling is marked by the baccalaureate exam .The secondary schools aim at consolidating and deepening the knowledge acquired in the different disciplinary fields, developing methods of analysis; synthesis; reasoning and taking responsibility, having an openness to foreign civilizations and cultures and to accept differences and to coexist peacefully with other peoples and preparing pupils for the pursuit of further studies or higher education.

   The reform of the education system in Algeria is implemented gradually since 2003 because the school has become an important political issue, in recent years. The reform was as consequence to numerous criticisms of national education on the lack of quality and efficiency .Thus, the reform has been initiated with the aim of increasing the efficiency of the system and responding to the challenges of the modern society. Two major projects were launched: reformed school curricula in the form of skills and textbooks, which was the cornerstone of the generalization of the reform and adapting the competency-based approach that focuses on a pupil (learner-centered) rather than on the teacher during the teaching and learning process. In this approach the pupil is trained to act and build knowledge by himself (to seek information, to organize, to analyze situations, to develop hypotheses, to respond to problem situations and evaluate solutions based on acquired knowledge). It aims at making learning more concrete and operational, geared towards integration into society and into everyday life.

The Algerian Education System (Written by ARAB Sabrina)


Blida, City of Roses

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    Blida is an Algerian city located about 45 km south-west of Algiers, the national capital. Its name is derived from the Arabic word" belda " which means city. It was even called the "prostitute", in the past; because it was charming and a place of pleasure. Blida covers an area of 482.8km2. Its population is estimated at 839,942 inhabitants. It is divided administratively into 25 municipalities. 
   Historically speaking, Blida is one of Algerian cultural heritage. Its vestiges reflect the passage of several civilizations and the blending of several Roman, Byzantine, Islamic, Ottoman and French cultures. It was founded in the 16th century by an Andalusian immigrant Sidi Ahmed El Kebir (1474-1568), who merged with the local tribes to introduce the irrigation technique into the region, arboriculture and leather embroidery. After his death, many synagogues, mausoleums and necropolis bear his name. 

The prosperity came to this city with the Ottoman conquest; the city became a kind of privileged place of comfort, relax and recreation for the enriched and sovereign Turkish lords of Algiers.  It was surrounded by a wall of considerable extent that was pierced by six gates. The city is full of the Turkish historical sites and monuments, such as the Ottoman mosques (El Hannafi El Turqui), (Ibn Saadoun Ben Baba Ali) which testify its cultural richness and its historical memory during the period of the Ottoman regency .Also, during the French colonialism, modern and magnificent streets with many arcades shaded by trees, buildings and several churches(the Cathedral of St Charles currently occupied by the great mosque El Kawthar), extensive barracks and a large military hospital were built there.

  Blida is surrounded with orchards and gardens, 190 meters above the sea, on the southern edge of the fertile Mitidja Plain, and the right bank of the Oued el kebir . The clean air and the very mild climate and the abundant water of this stream and numerous fountains provides irrigated gardens for orange and olive trees ,cork ,corn and cedar groves that are a source of revenue to the town. The fertile Blida has a flourishing trade, chiefly in oranges and flour. Besides, the beautiful gardens of rose and jasmine around the city. The most well known village in Blida is Chrea .It is covered with villas and chalets that give a chance to visitors to discover the region where the skiers venture to climb, ski, camp and discover all sorts of flora.

Blida, City of Roses (Written by ARAB Sabrina)

Eraguene in Jijel Province, wonderful photos with snow

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Eragueneis is a commune in Jijel Province.

Dam Erraguene, Erraguen









Places Worth a Visit in Algiers, the Capital

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   There are many places that make you appreciate Algiers in different ways .One can begin the visit of Algiers by the discovery of its lung; Kasbah of Algiers, an old citadel which evokes a lot about the historical side of the country. Then, explore the palaces like Dar Mustapha Pasha, Dar Hassan Pasha and Dar Khadaouedj El Amia, etc.  You are absolutely going to admire and be seduced by all the spiritual places like the sublime Basilica of Our Lady of Africa , Jamaa El Kebir (Place of Martyrs) and Jamaa Erahma (Khelifa Boukhalfa Street) and the Ketchaoua mosque. 

Dar Mustapha Pasha
Lady of Africa
Jamaa El Kebir

   In Algiers, there are many buildings  which will allow you to discover one of the many achievements of the architect Fernand Pouillon in Algeria (Diar Es-Saada). A lot of streets present the most beautiful aspects of the French neoclassical architecture. As an example, the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart with modernist architecture stands out frankly from this succession of old buildings proudly molded, mosaics and balustrades in wrought iron. In addition to the legendary building “The Grande Post” (constructed in 1909), the jewel of neo-Moorish architecture and it stills until today the landmark of Algiers. 

   Algiers is headquarters of dozens of museums. You can begin your visit at the Museum of Antiquities and Islamic Art which is one of the most interesting museums in the capital along with the Bardo Museum which has been classified as the UNESCO World Heritage since 1985 .You can also visit the Mujahedin Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts which includes the largest collection of African art and it houses the works of Algerian painters, miniaturists and visual artists such as Baya, Racim, Khadda and Issiakhem. You can even walk around the Maqâm Echahid (monument of the Martyr), a monument that was constructed in memory of the martyrs of the Algerian revolution.

  All important streets are in Algiers the capital; boulevard khemisti, Didouche Mourad Street which is lined with fine craft shops and bookshops and sometimes compared to the Champs Elysees, the Street of Larbi Ben M'Hidi (rue d'Isly) which is lined with snacks and shops of all kinds. Further afield, Touati-Mohamed square, better known as square Port Said or Bresson, where the majestic Algiers National Theater is held, offering the spectacle of an impressive open-air exchange office, and Bab-Azzoun Street that leads to the Place des Martyrs (ex-place of government) which was the former center of Algiers from the arrival of the French and until the beginning of the twentieth century. 
El Hamma wonder; the Test Garden

    The discovery of the city is continued by walking around in El Hamma wonder; the Test Garden (Jardin d’ Essai ) that impresses, attracts and seduces by its unique flora and the harmonious marriage of colors(it includes 3000 different and rare species ). Besides, Dounya Park which is inaugurated at the end of 2013 offers a life-size playground for hikers or nature lover. Picnic tables, a natural lake and its wildlife, as well as games for children will have finished conquering you. Algiers is also one of the best places to spend a few days to enjoy the Mediterranean coast and its beaches. El Aurassi Hotel (5 stars) dominates the capital and leads you to appreciate a beautiful view from its location, it offers a comfortable stay to enjoy your visit to the capital.

Places Worth a Visit in Algiers, the Capital (Written by ARAB Sabrina)

Deglet Nour Date, Typically Algerian

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Deglet Nour Date
Source of image: Echorouknews

   Date of light or finger of light or Deglet Nour is a cultivar of date which is commonly referred to as the "queen of all dates". It is so called because of their slight translucency, elongated shape and their seed can be seen right through the flesh when exposed to the light. Its soft touch, a translucent light color, a soft honey taste and mouth melting distinguish it from other dates. Several old books provide evidence that the Deglet Nour date was first grown in Algeria because it is a country that possesses the ideal natural environment for the growth of date palms, where fresh air arrives from the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlas Mountains. No other country can provide such an optimum combination of temperature, humidity, soil properties and ground waters close to the surface, which allow the cultivation of these exotic trees in plantations giving record harvests of perfect quality, as Algeria.

    In the Algerian desert where the food and source of water are so scarce, the nomadic tribes call the dates “bread of the desert”; it is always served with tea. They refer to the palm tree as the tree of life; it grows between 15 to 20 meters high and bear fruit for up to a century. Every two years the palms’ pollinated flowers bear new dates. According to them from the palm tree they were able to produce many products. 

This cultivar of date is mainly grown predominantly in Biskra province of Algeria (in the oases of Tolga and Oued Righ). Despite being grown in several Mediterranean countries, Algeria remains the chief export and the world's largest producer of Deglet Nour. The fruits dry in the simmering heat of the desert sun while still on the branch without any treatment or chemical addition. As soon as the drying phase is over, the ripped dates are harvested by hand. After that, they are first sorted by size, degree of drying and further criteria before they are washed and sprinkled with drinking water until the desired moisture content has been reached.  

  Deglet Nour dates are  praised all over the world for their high nutritional value .They are fully loaded with many vitamins and minerals ,rich in potassium, iron and fluorine. They also contain sulfur, magnesium, phosphorous, calcium, manganese, copper, amino acids, vitamin A, B, specially B6, C, K. Due to their high nutrient concentration, dates were counted as a staple foodstuff as far back as 5000 years ago, and this is also the case today. When looking at their rich level of nutrients, it is not surprising that dates have enjoyed such a significant role in various stages of history. The date “Deglet Nour” with its vitamins and mineral nutrients, it is a highly effective combined energy source. Not only can the sweet honey caramel date fruit pulp be used as an important food product and energy source, but in the desert the date pits are also trampled down, mixed with a small amount of water and used as animal food. The dates can be kept fresh and elegant even out of the refrigerator.

   Dates are characterized not only by their high number of vitamins and trace elements, but also by their significance in human history. Dates also enjoy an important role in Islam. During the fasting period of Ramadan, Muslims break their fast after sunset with a date and a glass of water or milk, as the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) purportedly recommended. 

   Today, Deglet Nour is one of the leading products of Algerian agriculture. Its sweet, delicate taste and pleasant texture made Deglet Nour the most popular among all date’s varieties.

Deglet Nour Date, Typically Algerian (Written by ARAB Sabrina)

Historical Algerian Figures; Emir Abd el-Kader

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    He is Abd el-Kader Ben Muhieddine, better known as Emir Abd el-Kader, born in 1808 in El Guetna (near Mascara) in Algeria. He is the third son of the scholar Sidi Muhieddine and Zohra (Muhieddine's second wife), a cultivated woman. He is an Algerian cunning politician and military leader, also a writer and poet, a philosopher and theologian, a Sufi (mystic) and humanist. He learned the Koran by heart at early age. He is endowed with a curious mind and a phenomenal memory; he can quote Greek philosophers (Plato, Aristotle) and many other writings (including the Muqaddima book of Ibn Khaldun) without having them at his disposal. The Emir is considered the founder of the modern Algerian state who led the Algerians in their 19th century struggle against French colonialism and domination between 1832 and 1847. He left many books such as Reminder to the Intelligent, Being and Mind, Emir‘s autobiography and other spiritual writings.


   Abd el -Kader opposed the Ottoman rule in Oran in1832.At 25 years old, he took the place of his father leading the jihad. Abd el -Kader, who was recognized as commander of the faithful (Emir el Mouminine), quickly gained the support of tribes throughout Algeria. From his capital in Tlemcen, he set about building a territorial Muslim state based on the communities of the interior but drawing its strength from the tribes and religious brotherhoods. By 1839, he controlled more than two-thirds of Algeria. His government maintained an army and a bureaucracy, collected taxes, supported education, undertook public works, and established agricultural and manufacturing cooperatives to stimulate economic activity. The French in Algiers viewed with concern the success of a Muslim government and the rapid growth of a viable territorial state that barred the extension of European settlement. 

     Abd el-Kader fought running battles across Algeria with French forces, which included units of the Foreign Legion, organized in 1831 for Algerian service. Although his forces were defeated by the French under General Thomas Bugeaud in 1836, he negotiated a favourable peace treaty the next year (Tafna Treaty 1837). By this convention, France recognized its authority over the entire western Beilik (except Oran, Arzew, Mostaganem and Mazagran), the beilik of the Titteri and the province of Algiers (except Algiers, Blida as well as the Mitidja plain and the Algerian Sahel). In these territories, two-thirds of Algeria, Abd el-Kader strives to organize an independent and sovereign state on a religious basis.

To provoke new hostilities, the French deliberately broke the treaty in 1839 by occupying Constantine. Abd el -Kader took up the holy war again, destroyed the French settlements on the Mitidja Plain, and at one point advanced to the outskirts of Algiers itself. He struck where the French were weakest and retreated when they advanced against him in greater strength. The government moved from camp to camp with the Emir and his army. Gradually, however, superior French resources and manpower and the defection of tribal chieftains took their toll. 

Reinforcements poured into Algeria after 1840 until Bugeaud had at his disposal 108,000 men, one-third of the French army. Bugeaud's strategy was to destroy Abd el-Kader's bases, then to starve the population by destroying its means of subsistence (crops, orchards, and herds). On several occasions, French troops burned or asphyxiated non combatants hiding from the terror in caves. One by one, the Emir's strongholds fell to the French, and many of his ablest commanders were killed or captured so that by 1843 the Muslim state had collapsed. He was obliged to surrender to the commander of Oran Province, General Louis de Lamoriciêre, at the end of 1847.

    El Emir died on 26 May 1883 in Damascus (Syria).The Algerian government brought his remains back to Algeria to be interred in the Al-Alia cemetery with much ceremony on July 5, 1966, the fourth anniversary of independence and the 136th anniversary of the French conquest. To honour him, his name was given to the Islamic University and a mosque in Constantine, a city in the United States of America bears his name: Elkader in Iowa, the notes of the Algerian Dinars are engraved with his photo, many places in Paris and Lyon also bear its name, etc.

Historical Algerian Figures; Emir Abd el-Kader (Written by ARAB Sabrina)

El Zalabia

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    El Zalabia or Zlabia in the Algerian dialect is a popular sweet in Northern and Eastern African countries. Some historians reported that it is originally a Turkish dessert and that the Algerians learned to cook it during the Ottoman Empire rule; that is why it is also very popular in Turkey, Tunisia, Syria, and Lebanon. Every Algerian agrees that one of the most significant symbols of Ramadan is Zlabia. It is heavily available during Ramadan. The city of Boufariq (40 Km western of Algiers) has a reputation as the best city in Algeria for cooking this type of sweets. So, don’t get astonished if you see there long queues of Algerians under the sun rays waiting in the Zlabia shops to buy their beloved dessert, during Ramadan. 

   There are several recipes for preparing zlabia, the following is one of the most used recipes in Algeria:

Batter:   -1 cup of flour and 1 cup of semolina 
              - 1 and half cup of warm water 
              -1 tablespoon of yeast
             -1 teaspoon of salt
             -2 tablespoon of oil
             -Saffron or Red food coloring (to get either yellow or orange Zlabia)
Syrup: -5 cups of sugar
            -3 cups of water
            -½ tablespoon of lemon juice or slices 
            - ½ tablespoon of rose water.

Preparation: Put the flour and semolina in a bowel .Add the yeast, oil, salt and the warm water. Mix them with an electric mixer. Add the saffron or the red coloring to the batter to get the color you want. Cover the mixture  with a clean cloth and leave to rise in a warm place for 15 min , then beat the batter another 10 minutes, and let it rise again for 30 minutes. Beat the batter again for 10 minutes, and then let it rest a final time for 30 minutes. The secret for making good Zlabia is to beat the dough at regular intervals and allow resting again (at least 3 times). While the batter is resting, make the syrup.

Syrup: Place the sugar in saucepan until it gets the brown color. Add water, lemon slices and rose water in a saucepan .Let them boil altogether very well.

  In the other hand, heat the oil in the pan .Then, press the batter through a pastry tube to shape balls or discs and drop them into the oil. Let them fry from the both sides until they get the golden brown color. Frying them very well makes them crackling. Remove with a slotted spoon and allow draining on paper towels. Dip them in the cold syrup for a few seconds while they are still very hot and lift them out again ;this makes them a rich source of calories (if you prefer, you may leave them longer to soak up syrup). Set them on a wire rack with wax paper underneath to drain. The sweets are served warm or cold. Bon Appetit! 

El Zalabia (Written by ARAB Sabrina)

The Algerian Agricultural Sector

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   Agriculture is an important factor in the Algerian economy. It is one of the government's priorities in order to diversify its economy that still dominated by oil production. Although huge financial resources and many reform policies and public investments, the Algerian agriculture still struggles to develop. In fact, Algeria is still suffering from the problems of the agrarian sector more than ten years later to make progress on the road to food self-sufficiency. Even the Ministry of Agriculture, and since 2000, had set up a National Agricultural Development Plan, including measures to improve the country's food security, increase employment(25%) and increase incomes in rural areas to develop and intensify production chains, adapt cropping systems, reforestation, development of land through participation of local people, reduce water losses and support local micro-irrigation, protect the steppes and fight against desertification, rehabilitate oases …However, it doomed to failure.

    Algeria is a vast country that possesses all the adequate elements to make agriculture prosper. It has a real agricultural potential that could produce fruits, potatoes, vegetables, dates, livestock production and poultry farming... However, The Algerian agricultural sector suffers from low productivity due to several factors; lack of water which is considered essential to any agricultural activity and the productivity is highly depending on the climatic conditions(varies according to the rainfall), old-fashioned irrigation systems low investment, poor infrastructure, lack of training of human resources, management difficulties, etc. 

   Thus, Algeria has to import massive cereals and milk. These two products prevent it from achieving food self -efficiency (spending around 4 billion each year). Algeria is the largest importer of agricultural products, especially cereals, in Africa and in the world because its domestic production is very limited and insufficient to meet the needs. It is mainly destined mainly to feed the population which witnesses a rising demographic growth each year. Besides the cereals (barley, wheat, maize, flour), Algeria imports large quantities of milk ;the need  is imported in the form of powder . Algeria has also become a recent exporter of potatoes. Its main suppliers are France, Argentina and Brazil.

   In Algeria, it is the private sector that largely predominates agriculture. The private dominance of agricultural property and available capital is increasingly encouraging foreign investors from all over the world particularly from France, Italy and Spain, in attempt to promote agricultural sector. The cooperation includes the transfer of know-how in the fields of agricultural mechanization, seed development, soil fertilization, storage and Saharan agriculture. There are numerous examples of the creation, in collaboration with certain French producers; in the Kabyle regions , in particular, large private companies Cevital, Danone, Soummam, Ifri ,and so on, had been established.

    Dependence on food imports, mismanagement and dilapidation of irrigation systems, degradation of infrastructure, shortages of consumer products, farmers' distress, etc. Such are the evils that eat up Algerian agriculture .As a result, the needs are far from being covered, even in a favorable year when the country get a self-sufficiency in any agrarian product, it depends on the importation of the inputs necessary for its functioning .To sum up, Algeria is very far from ensuring food self-sufficiency while the price of fresh agricultural products is one of the main sources of the inflation reducing purchasing power, specifically, in Ramadan. 


The Algerian Agricultural Sector (Written by ARAB Sabrina)


The Algerian Billionaires

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    According to a recent study revealed by New World Wealth, Algeria ranks 10th among the African countries with the highest fortunes. Algeria has approximately 4700 millionaires and it is expected to host 5600 millionaires in 2020 if the current growth continues. Almost of them run industrial groups that earn hundreds of millions of Euros every year. This selection is certainly relies on objective elements such as the personal fortune, the size of their companies and their influence on the economic and political life of the country.

1. Issad Rebrab:


   The Algerian businessman Issad Rebrab, the head of the Cevital Group, is on the top of the list. He is the richest man in Algeria; his personal fortune is estimated at 3.2 billion dollars (2.7 billion Euros). His reputation has crossed the country's borders and his career has been exemplified as a success story in many countries around the world. It is for the first time that an Algerian is among the list of fifty African billionaires. Rebrab has a lot of projects in Algeria, however, several of them have been blocked (problems with the Algerian regime).His current project intends to help Africa develop through building a transcontinental railway line to connect the shores of the Mediterranean to the center of Africa and connect Djibouti to the Atlantic Ocean in order to export their products at lower cost. The project is still under study.

2. Djilali Mehri:


   Djilali Mehri belongs to the list too. He entered the business world when he was only 16 years old. In other words, he is graduated from the Algerian business world. He is the owner of Pepsi Cola Algeria and he has opened several hotels across the country (Novotel).For him building a successful company needs the energy of young people and the experience of old ones. Its group, GIMMO (Group of investors from the Maghreb and the Middle East), is present in countries on all continents. His personal fortune would probably exceed 600 million Euros. He possesses a luxurious residence in the field of Pré-Bois, in Yvelines, France. Also, in his native region, Oued Souf province, he has built a palace of thousand and nights in the bottom of the desert. He strongly supports the development of the southern provinces, mainly his birthplace El Oued. He participates in charity and helps sick people in need of care abroad in addition to his donations of medical equipment to hospitals in remote areas. In Algeria, some of his projects have been suspended, such as the launch of a Maghreb television channel devoted to the economy, culture and tourism. 

3. Ali Haddad:


   Another Algerian billionaire is Ali Haddad who is the most powerful Algerian billionaire since he does not hide his friendly relationship with Algerian leaders, including Said Bouteflika, the brother and advisor of the president Abdelaziz Bouteflika. Haddad has a powerful group of construction which is responsible for all mega-projects of Algeria like East West Highway. He is also the owner of Dzair TV Channel and two national dailies (the Algerian Time /Wakt el Djzair). His personal fortune is estimated at more than 400 million Euros.

4. Karim Kouninef:


     In addition to an influential and young businessman Karim Kouninef, who heads one of the largest Algerian private groups known as Heavy Construction Company . He takes over his father’s business. In business, the Kouninef family has impressive successes. For example, in 1990, a subsidiary of the Kouninef group was the first private Algerian company to drill oil, particularly for the multinational Mobil. Karim took many activities. In the 1990s, he managed a company that exported coffee from Cameroon. Now, its group is present in almost all sectors of the food industry, in hydraulics and even in fiber optics. His family and personal fortune is estimated at least 300 million Euros.

5. Mohamed Laid Benamor:


   The billionaire Mohamed Laid Benamor ; the owner of the famous Benamor Group that is one of the most dynamic private groups right now in Algeria, concerned with the production of semolina , pasta, catchup or canned tomatoes, fruits and sauces. When Mohamed Laid Benamor, elected new president of the Algerian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CACI), he has emerged on the public scene and its influence on policy makers is increasingly important. His family and personal fortune is estimated at least 180 million Euros.

6. Abdelmadjid Kerrar:


   Moreover to a discreet man , Abdelmadjid Kerrar. He embodies on his own a true success story. It all began for him in 1992 when he founded Biopharm. In a few years, this company became a flagship of the Algerian pharmaceutical industry. In 2013, three international financial groups took 49% of the capital of this first Algerian laboratory, Biopharm whose turnover exceeded 200 million Euros. Today, he has invested in international trade in Asia in particular. His personal fortune reaches at least 150 million Euros.

7. Mahieddine Tahkout:


   The list includes too the well known Algerian, Mahieddine Tahkout who has almost the largest bus park in Algeria: about 3500 buses and vehicles. He has made himself known for years thanks to the transport of several thousand students he provides daily with his bus. According to several concordant sources, he is also a shareholder in the French airline ‘Air Méditerranée’. Also present with his brother in the car dealership (Cima Motors) and he also intends to diversify his investments soon. His personal fortune is estimated at more than 120 million Euros.

8. Abderrahmane Benhamadi:


   Abderrahmane Benhamadi, the boss of the Condor group, this captain of industry has become the leader of the Algerian home appliance market, is among the most influential Algerian billionaires. He is the one who has managed to cope with importers by successfully developing the manufacture and assembly of household electrical equipment. Today, it is attacking the markets of smart phones and tablets. He also agreed to a major investment in the solar energy market. The personal and family fortune easily adjoins the 100 million Euros. 

9. Abdelouahab Rahim:


   Abdelouahab Rahim is also one of the richest men of Algeria. His group is very financially strong despite the lack of success at the launch of his Algina Medina project. The owner of the Hilton hotel dreamed of remodeling the Algerian capital. To do this, he launched a bond issue to mobilize $ 2.5 billion. The operation is not a success, but this businessman continues his way and returns to the front of the stage with the opening of Ardis, a huge shopping center very popular with the Algiers. His fortune amounts to tens of millions of Euros.

The Algerian Billionaires (Written by ARAB Sabrina)

Top 10 largest countries in Africa

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Introduction

Africa the home of blacks and the white, is the second most popular and the largest continent in the world. The first being Asia followed by Africa. It has a total of 54 countries in it, all them being an attractive feature for tourist from all parts of the world. A research done in 2016 stated that Africa has a total of 1.2 billion thus being the second populated continent in the world. It accounts for about 16% of the world's human population. The continent attracts many of tourist in all parts of the world due to its geographical features it is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea to the North, Suez Canal, and the Red Sea to the northeast, the Indian Ocean to the southeast and the Atlantic Ocean to the west.

The 10 largest countries in Africa

1) Algeria (2,381,741 square kilometers)


Algeria has emerged to be the largest nation in Africa continent, and the tenth largest country in the world. Thou most of the highest percentage is a desert, it's a highly populated country having around 38.7 million people in it. Algeria is a predominantly Muslim country recording the hottest temperature on Earth. History, language, customs, and an Islamic heritage make Algeria an integral part of the Maghrib and the larger Arab world. The country is located in the North of Africa.

2) The Democratic Republic of the Congo (2,344,858 square kilometers)


It is the second largest country in Africa located in Central Africa. The population of the Democratic Republic of the Congo is approximately 4.66 million. 

3) Sudan (1,861,484 square kilometers)


Sudan is the third largest country in Africa, highly populated with Arab and located in the Nile Valley of North Africa. The Nile River divides the nation into eastern and western halves. Nile River is almost the largest river in Africa.Around 37.2 million people live in Sudan. It’s the most geographically diverse states in Africa. Research shows that it’s the sixteenth largest country in the whole world.

4) Libya (1,759,540 square kilometers)


North African nation Libya is the seventeenth-largest country in the whole world. Its capital city known as Tripoli is the largest city and the capital of Libya. Around one million of Libya’s six million people live in Tripoli.

5) Chad (1,284,000 square kilometers)


Thou chad is a landlocked country in Central Africa the nation has a population of 10.33 million. Around 1.9 percent of Chad is water. It’s surrounded by Lake Chad which is the largest wetland in Chad, and the second-largest in the African continent.  Chad has several regions, a desert zone in the north, an arid Sahelian belt and a more fertile Savanna zone in the south.

6) Niger (1,267,000 square kilometers)


It is a landlocked country, the largest nation in West Africa named after Niger River. It borders Libya, Chad, Nigeria, and Benin. More than 80 percent of its land area is covered by the Sahara Desert thus being a good feature for tourist attraction. The population of Niger is approximately 15.73 million.

7) Angola (1,246,700 square kilometers)


It is the seventh-largest country in Africa, bordered by Namibia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Zambia, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west.  Latest research shows that the population of the Republic of Angola is around 24.38 million. The nation is located in Southern Africa and it is the twenty-third largest nation in the world.

8) Mali (1,240,192 square kilometers)


This is a West African landlocked nation. Has a population of around 14.5 million. That borders on the north reach deep into the middle of the Sahara. Majority of its citizens live in the southern part of the nation, which features Niger and Senegal rivers thus good attraction for tourist. It’s largely flat and arid

9) South Africa (1,219,090 square kilometers)


It's the southernmost country in Africa. South Africa has largely coastline area that expanses along the South Atlantic and Indian Oceans. It is the twenty-fifth-largest country in the whole world by land area. The country borders Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Lesotho. 

10) Ethiopia (1,104,300 square kilometers)


Ethiopia is located in the Horn of Africa and the oldest independent country in Africa. It is the most populous landlocked nation in the world. It the second largest populated country and around 0.7 percent of the nation is water.

Conclusion 

The article expounds more on several countries of Africa and the topmost countries located on the continent. 

Links of some Algerian Universities

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University of Mila :   http://www.centre-univ-mila.dz/ar/index.php
University of Oum El Bouagui:   http://www.univ-oeb.dz
University of El Taref:   http://univ-eltarf.dz/fr
University of Khenchela:   http://www.univ-khenchela.dz
University of Msila :   http://www.univ-msila.dz/ar
University of Ouargla:   http://www.univ-ourgla.dz/index.php/fr
University of Tebessa:   http://www.univ-tebessa.dz
University of Souk Ahras:   http://www.univ-soukahras.dz/fr
University of Alger1:   http://www.univ-alger.dz/univ_ar/index.php
University of Alger2:   http://univ-alger2.dz/index.php/ar
University of Alger3:   http://www.univ-alger3.dz
University of Blida1:   http://www.univ-blida.dz
University of Blida2:   http://univ-blida2.dz
University of Bouira:   http://www.univ-bouira.dz/fr
University of Bejaia:   http://www.univ-bejaia.dz
University of Tizi ouzou:   http://www.ummto.dz 
University of Medea:   http://www.univ-medea.dz/fr
University of Djelfa:   http://www.univ-djelfa.dz/ara
University of Laghouat:   http://www.lagh-univ.dz
University of Boumerdes:   http://www.univ-boumerdes.dz
University of Constantine1:   http://www.umc.edu.dz/index.php/fr
University of Constantine2:   http://www.univ-constantine2.dz
University of Constantine3:   http://www.univ-constantine3.dz
Emir Abdelkader university( Constantine):   http://www.univ-emir.dz
University of Skikda:   http://www.univ-skikda.dz/index.php/fr
University of Jijel:   http://www.univ-jijel.dz/index.php/fr
University of Setif 1:   http://arabe.univ-setif.dz
University of Setif 2:   http://www.univ-setif2.dz/index.php/ar
University of Annaba:   http://www.univ-annaba.dz
University of Bourdj Bouararidj :   http://www.univ-bba.dz/index.php/ar
University of Biskra:   http://univ-biskra.dz
University of Batna1:   http://www.univ-batna.dz
University of Batna2:   http://www.univ-batna2.dz
University of Guelma:   http://www.univ-guelma.dz
University of Eloued:   http://www.univ-eloued.dz

A Castle, a Story; the Countess's Castle in Aokas, Bejaia Province

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    Aokas is known for its high mountains (Imma Tadrart at an altitude of 437 m), its fairy caves and beautiful beaches, but also for its majestic architecture called: the Castle of the Countess or the Poisat Castle (Château Poizat). This residential mansion, built on a rampart, at the western entrance of the Bejaia city, is located along the RN9 road; 1.5 km from the city of Aokas and anyone who is crossing this road can easily see the Countess’s Castle facing the sea since it is located near the road. It is a real masterpiece which enjoys a natural position; it is surrounded by forests and facing the sea.


   The Countess's Castle, a monumental building is dated back to the colonial era. The construction work of this residence began in 1870 and ended in 1890 by a French army general, nicknamed Poison, who had no heirs. It is said that this general was married to an Algerian woman from the region of Bejaia and when it was done, he wanted to give it a surname of his wife, but she refused. Then the general decided to give to his sumptuous residence the name "The Countess's Castle" in the honor of his wife whom he loved so much.


   This architectural masterpiece was built with carved stone and extends on an area of 5983 m². It is composed of a main building (a two-storey house), a ground floor of 195 m² divided into three bedrooms, a reception hall and a showroom. 

    This beautiful construction, left in abeyance since independence, was ceded to the direction of youth and sports of Bejaia who intends to turn it into a youth hostel. Although, the castle was in advanced degradation due to its abandonment, it kept intact its stature it remains one of the most prominent architectural attractions of the Bejaia city. 


 Currently, it is totally renovated by the youth and sports services to become an international youth hostel. The Bejaia Youth and Sports Department transformed this beautiful architectural work into a youth hostel after a rehabilitation of the premises with the same building materials of that time, and an extension of more than 3000m2. The castle will have 120 beds, a conference room with 200 seats, library ,a cybercafé, a cafeteria , a gym, a restaurant with 70 seats + 20 VIPs, housing, underground transformed into a museum ,green spaces.

ARAB Sabrina

The Bardo National Museum

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    The National Museum of Bardo is a national museum located in the city center of Algiers, Algeria. It was built in the late eighteenth century by a wealthy Tunisian known as Hadj Ben Omar to serve as a summer residence for the reception of local dignitaries. Then in 1879, during the French colonialism, it became the property of Pierre Joret who used it as place to give his concerts .After that, it was inaugurated in 1930 on the occasion of the 100 years of French colonization in Algeria. This museum, which has been classified as UNESCO World Heritage since 1985, consists of two parts, one dedicated to prehistory and another to ethnography.

   The Bardo National Museum is a spectacular attraction in Algiers with its superb and typical architecture, decorative design, exquisite fountains, and small pleasant gardens .It represents the traditional elements of the Ottoman architecture (precious wood, earthenware, wrought iron, low doors, baffles, green inner courtyard and its marble fountain basin, etc.).  It is also a perfect way to discover the magnificence of past eras and the Algerian cultural heritage. It houses some of the best and most exclusive artifacts and unusual items not only Algerian but also foreign that visitors are ever likely to see. 

   Bardo displays a myriad of interesting of prehistoric artifacts collections of remains mostly discovered during excavations in Algeria. It has also very interesting collections from the Maghreb and the Sahara; ancient fossils, pottery and some of the pieces include a spectacular collection of rock paintings and rock carvings that were discovered in the Tassili N’Ajjer region, copper tea pots, stone collections, leatherwork, saddles, jewelry, idols, wooden furniture, costumes and weaponry like shields and daggers, in addition to other Paleolithic and Neolithic tools. Besides, it contains the fragments of jaw and parietal of Atlanthropus Mauritanicus, who lived about five hundred thousand years ago in Ternifine, in the region of Mascara (Algeria), the Protohistoric pieces like bronze rings, engraved slabs ..., Tinhinan tomb; the legendary ancestor of the Tuareg, whose skeleton was found in 1926 near Abalessa in the Hoggar. A showcase reveals the jewels of the queen found in the tumulus sheltering her tomb. The ethnographic part consists of an urban section; brassware, rifles, sabers, Berber jewels, pottery and traditional costumes of Constantine, Algiers, Tlemcen, kabyle, etc. Eventually, each gallery has its own unique pieces on which visitors marvel at. 

The Bardo National Museum (Written by ARAB Sabrina)

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