Innovation in the Desert: Technology, Culture and Sustainable Development

Innovation is often born from necessity, and few places illustrate this more clearly than the Sahara. As part of DZfest, the TIDE Centre co-hosted the panel “Innovation in the Desert: Technology, Culture, and Sustainable Development,” bringing together filmmakers, researchers, and practitioners to explore how extreme environments can foster creativity, resilience, and sustainable solutions. The discussion spanned desert agriculture, ecological preservation, infrastructure development, artificial intelligence, and cultural heritage, highlighting the Sahara as a space of experimentation rather than limitation. 

Speakers emphasised that sustainable innovation in desert contexts must be locally grounded and socially inclusive. From agro-tech models adapted to water scarcity to renewable-powered digital infrastructure and immersive storytelling that reshapes perceptions of desert regions, the panel showcased interdisciplinary approaches to development. The Sahara’s historical role as a bridge between North and Sub-Saharan Africa was also reflected in the diversity of perspectives and exchanges. By convening voices across disciplines and geographies, the event fostered dialogue and collaboration aimed at shaping sustainable futures in some of the world’s most challenging environments.