In the M’zab in Algeria, the Saharan region of Ghardaïa has an immense solar energy potential that if properly utilized could significantly contribute to sustainable development and provide concrete solutions to socio-economic problems that arise with acuity in these desert regions. This region is endowed with a dynamic of development, able to favor the emergence of systems diversity, and agricultural and agrofood products of high quality. In recent years, the drying of fruits and vegetables on a small scale has witnessed renewed interest in the M’zab.
The drying of agricultural products represents a very important socio-economic activity and serves as a main vector for the dynamics of local development. This study conducted an analysis to better identify the obstacles that hinder this practice. However, the valorization, resources and local products through the local assets were found to be beset by certain problems.
The inventory of activities of fruit and vegetable in southern Algeria has shown that despite the different products available locally, the need for drying devices that better meet users’ expectations remains very important. It is therefore very appropriate to develop drying facilities that can support local agricultural production and ensure its preservation during peak production. Reflection on the positioning of this practice has proved to be an important step that will reduce the costs of setting up new units.