From satellite observations to international cooperation, the Algerian Space Agency is helping transform space technologies into practical tools for wildfire resilience across the Mediterranean.
When we think about wildfire management, satellites are not usually the first thing that come to mind. Yet hundreds of kilometres above the Earth, they provide information that has become essential for understanding how landscapes evolve, identifying areas at risk, and supporting those responsible for protecting forests.
This is where the Algerian Space Agency brings its expertise to MedFireWise.
The team has spent more than two decades developing space technologies that support environmental monitoring, sustainable development, and decision-making. Within MedFireWise, the agency contributes its expertise in Earth Observation, remote sensing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and geospatial analysis, helping partners better understand wildfire risks through satellite data.
Speaking with Kamel Tichouiti, one thing quickly became clear: for him and his team, satellite technology is never an end in itself. Its real value lies in helping people make better decisions.
Kamel describes his role as ensuring that his team’s contribution is fully integrated into the project while working closely with the consortium. Behind this coordination is a multidisciplinary team working across several scientific fields.
“Our team brings expertise in Earth Observation, remote sensing, Geographic Information Systems and geospatial analysis,” Kamel says. “We develop satellite products that help map wildfire-prone areas, monitor vegetation, assess fire impacts and support decision-making.”
But satellite imagery is only part of the story.
“Our contribution also includes developing decision-support tools for wildfire risk management, integrating spatial data into monitoring systems, and strengthening our partners’ capacities through knowledge sharing and technology transfer.”
For Kamel, transforming scientific information into practical tools is what makes space technologies truly valuable.
Although Algeria has its own environmental conditions, many of the wildfire challenges it faces are shared across the Mediterranean.
When asked about the biggest challenges, Kamel doesn’t point to a single cause.
“Climate change, human activities, the difficulty of intervention, environmental consequences, socio-economic impacts, and the need to strengthen prevention and risk management all contribute to the challenge,” he explains.
These interconnected factors require solutions that combine scientific knowledge, operational experience, and cooperation between countries facing similar realities.
For Kamel, this is precisely what makes MedFireWise different.
“The project strengthens wildfire prevention and management by combining improved prevention measures, modern technologies, capacity building, decision-support tools, public awareness and international cooperation between Mediterranean countries.”
Rather than relying on a single approach, MedFireWise creates opportunities to connect technologies, expertise, and people around a shared objective.
One of the aspects Kamel appreciates most is the collaboration between partners.
“Cooperation encourages the sharing of expertise, experiences and good practices between the different Mediterranean countries,” he says. “Our regular exchanges allow us to better understand the common challenges related to wildfires and to develop solutions adapted to local contexts.”
He also believes that one of the consortium’s greatest strengths lies in the relationships that have developed over the course of the project.
“I particularly appreciate the atmosphere of trust, the complementary expertise and the quality of communication between the consortium members.”
According to him, these exchanges go far beyond technical discussions.
“This collaboration strengthens everyone’s scientific and technical capacities, facilitates knowledge transfer and helps us achieve the project’s objectives more effectively.”
Looking to the future, Kamel hopes that MedFireWise will leave an impact that extends well beyond the project’s duration.
“I hope MedFireWise will make a lasting contribution to strengthening wildfire prevention and management throughout the Mediterranean region,” he says.
His ambition is to see stronger monitoring systems, innovative tools, and better-equipped institutions capable of protecting forests more effectively.
Above all, he hopes the project will continue bringing countries together.
“I would like MedFireWise to leave a lasting legacy by strengthening cooperation between Mediterranean countries, encouraging knowledge sharing and promoting the adoption of common good practices.”
As our conversation came to an end, one idea remained constant throughout: technology becomes far more powerful when it is shared.
Whether through satellite observations, geospatial analysis, or the exchange of expertise between partners, Algerian Space Agency’s contribution to MedFireWise demonstrates how space technologies can help support practical action on the ground while strengthening cooperation across the Mediterranean.
This article is part of the MedFireWise Partner Spotlight series, highlighting the people and organizations working together to strengthen wildfire resilience across the Mediterranean.
Last Update
09/07/2026
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