BATNA, Algeria: By donating one of her kidneys, Nawel gave her husband Boubaker Ziani a new lease on life after he had undergone 16 years of dialysis.
But in Algeria and across the entire Maghreb in North Africa, many people continue to suffer or die because of the lack of donors.
Part of the problem lies with laws restricting the harvesting of human organs, coupled with cultural or religious reticence, despite Muslim theologians’ approval of organ donations.
Ziani’s wife offered him a kidney after she saw that he had become too weak to play with or even to hold his children.
He had long rejected her willingness to help, but in the end as no other donor was available, he finally relented.
He had the operation at one of Algeria’s two main centers for kidney transplants, the University Hospital in Batna, 435 kilometers (270 miles) east of Algiers.
“I’m like a newborn,” Ziani told AFP, tears in his eyes.
In a consultation room, 47-year-old Abderahmane said he hoped an end to 24 years of dialysis was in sight thanks to a kidney from his mother.
“Dialysis has dominated my life. I want to take a break from this machine and live,” he said.
He suffers from a hereditary condition that also affects two of his brothers. Lacking access to transplants, one of them has died and the other has now been on dialysis for two years.
More than 22,000 people in Algeria suffer from renal conditions and are forced to undergo dialysis, according to the ministry of health. A third are waiting for a transplant.
Many others require liver donations, which can also be offered by live donors.
But under Algerian law, a living person can donate an organ only to a parent, child, sibling or spouse.
In the absence of a national database, the overall number of people awaiting transplants in Algeria is unknown.
Many patients are critically ill as they wait for organs such as a heart which can only be taken from deceased donors.
But the law says organs may only be removed from a dead person if their family agrees.
The overwhelming majority refuse, for lack of information, fear of violating religious laws or mistrust of doctors.
Some also suspect that transplants benefit only the privileged.
“Some families had never heard of donations from corpses before the death of a relative,” said Dr. Ahmed Bougroura, head of the Batna hospital’s kidney health department and coordinator of the transplant team.
Theologian Kamel Chekkat, a member of Algeria’s association of Islamic scholars, stressed that the practice was not religiously outlawed.
“From a religious point of view, there is nothing to oppose organ donation and the taking of organs from corpses,” he said.
He and other Muslim theologians have argued that organ donation after death is “ongoing charity” — a pious act in Islam that outlives the person who performs it.
The gift of an organ fulfils “one of the major objectives of Islamic law, which is the preservation of life,” Chekkat said.
As for the recipient, “whatever the religion of the patient... the law of God instructs us to preserve his life.”
In 2015, just two patients in Algeria — which has a population of more than 40 million — received donor kidneys, according to the Global Observatory on Donation and Transplantation (GODT).
The figures for Morocco and Tunisia were only marginally better, with fewer than 10 patients in each country receiving kidneys from the deceased.
“Organ donation... is struggling to gain a foothold in Morocco, even though there are no prohibitions: not medical, legal or religious,” Moroccan organ registrar Said Sabri told AFP.
Dr. Rafika Bardi, head of the Tunisian Center for the Promotion of Organ Transplantation, said that “as in all the countries of the Maghreb... organ donations by the deceased are minimal.”
She said the region lacked a “culture of donating organs” and that many people confuse organ donation with organ trafficking.
Algeria is considering changing the law to allow citizens to indicate in writing that they accept to have their organs removed in the event of their death, overriding refusals by their families.
However, specialists say that is not enough.
Campaigners in Algeria and Tunisia want to create registers of people who refuse to have their organs taken after their death — and anyone not on the list would be considered a potential donor by default.
Farid Sekouf, 41, who is finally preparing to receive his wife’s kidney after six years on dialysis, believes the public needs more information on the issue.
“When it comes to going to vote, the state does all it can so that even a person in a tent in the Sahara is informed,” he said.
In Algeria, taboos and law deter organ donors
In Algeria, taboos and law deter organ donors
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Speranza cafe’ in Jeddah
“You wanted cake? You got cake. Now, eat it!” If you are familiar with the film “Matilda,” you probably remember the iconic scene where a student is forced to devour an enormous, ultra-rich chocolate cake as punishment. Now, imagine experiencing that same chocolatey indulgence, but this time, purely for pleasure.
Speranza Cafe in Jeddah’s Al-Safa district offers the Matilda Cake and brings that unforgettable moment to life, minus the scary principal. Instead, you will be treated to a decadent, multi-layered chocolate masterpiece that is as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
I had the pleasure of trying it myself, and let me tell you, it was a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.
Pairing it with a latte made the experience even better. The coffee came with two complimentary mandarin biscuits, adding a zesty contrast to all that rich chocolate.
Speranza is spacious with two indoor floors and a charming rooftop area, exuding a modern-bohemian vibe that is both cosy and stylish.
The Arabic music selection adds to the warm, inviting ambience, making it the spot for a catch-up with friends.
And if chocolate is not your thing, Speranza’s menu has plenty more to offer including croissants, Danish pastries, pistachio and raspberry cakes, tiramisu and banoffee cake.
Coffee lovers will appreciate the giant cold brew prepared right in front of you.
With affordable prices and an experience worth every bite, I will be coming back for that cake.
For more information visit @speranzacafe on Instagram.
More than 300 aspiring chefs taking part in seafood cooking workshop in Riyadh
- Workshops organized by Saudi Chefs Association
- Sessions blend traditional Saudi methods, international expertise
RIYADH: More than 300 cooking enthusiasts are taking part in a three-day seafood cooking workshop in Riyadh in which top chefs are sharing their expertise.
Organized by the Saudi Chefs Association, the event is a highlight of the Saudi International Fisheries Exhibition, which is taking place until Feb. 5 at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center.
The workshop provides participants with an opportunity to learn from renowned Saudi and international chefs and features more than 20 seafood recipes drawing on traditional regional dishes.
The event is led by Yasser Jad, president of the Saudi Chefs Association, who spoke of the importance of mentorship and hands-on experience in the culinary industry.
Jad said: “Each day we hold six interactive sessions, featuring two master chefs who mentor two young chefs from different culinary schools, including students from HTMi Saudi Arabia, a leading hospitality and culinary institute.”
The association serves as a professional network, supporting chefs at all levels with practical training.
Jad added: “This is how chefs have always learned — by working side by side with experienced mentors. Masterclass continues that tradition in a structured, engaging environment.”
The masterclass workshop focuses on both traditional Saudi recipes and international seafood dishes.
Jad said: “We are proud to conduct this kind of workshop. Our goal is to preserve and modernize Saudi cuisine, ensuring that young chefs understand its history while also exploring contemporary techniques.”
Those participating work with fresh, locally sourced seafood, learning techniques for cleaning, filleting, marinating, and cooking different types of fish and shellfish.
Now in its fourth edition, the Saudi International Fisheries Exhibition is organized by the National Livestock and Fisheries Development Program under the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, with the participation of various public and private sector entities.
The event highlights sustainable seafood initiatives, aquaculture advancements, and cutting-edge fishing technologies. Visitors can explore live aquaculture systems and experience seafood tastings and interactive exhibits showcasing the latest industry innovations.
For the Saudi Chefs Association, education plays a key role.
Jad said: “We want chefs to understand the value of local seafood, both from a culinary and environmental perspective.
“By supporting local fisheries, we strengthen Saudi Arabia’s food security and culinary identity.”
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Amorino’ in Jeddah
- Amorino offers three sizes — small, medium and classic — starting from SR23 ($6), allowing you to mix and match your favorite flavors, whether a fruity refreshment or rich, nutty delight
Amorino gelato has opened in Jeddah, bringing a taste of Italy to the heart of Saudi Arabia.
With hundreds of branches worldwide including in France, the US, Spain, Germany, England and Morocco, Amorino is known for its organic, natural gelato, crafted without artificial colors or flavors, and featuring a variety of plant-based options.
Amorino is famous for its stunning flower-shaped gelato, allowing customers to mix multiple flavors into one edible masterpiece. I opted for a refreshing combination of mango, strawberry, pistachio and orange, topped with a delicate macaron for an extra touch of indulgence.
The freshly baked cone, coated with chocolate and crushed almonds, added a delightful crunch, perfectly complementing the creamy gelato.
Amorino offers three sizes — small, medium and classic — starting from SR23 ($6), allowing you to mix and match your favorite flavors, whether a fruity refreshment or rich, nutty delight.
For those who enjoy coffee with a twist, Amorino offers the classic affogato — a scoop of vanilla, chocolate, or coffee gelato topped with a shot of freshly brewed espresso — creating the ultimate hot-and-cold treat.
Amorino’s menu also features a selection of delicious gelato cakes, including strawberry and raspberry, vanilla and hazelnut praline, and mango and passion fruit.
Eggless and vegan options are also available, as well as crepes, waffles, hot chocolate, fresh juices, and gelato macarons.
For special occasions, Amorino offers catering services with a beautifully designed gelato booth, which can add a unique flair to any event.
It is available on food delivery apps and located at U-Walk, Al-Zahra district.
For more information check @amorino_sa on Instagram.
Where We Are Going Today: ‘La Calle’ in Jeddah
- The La Calle sandu is a club sandwich layered with fried eggs, smoked chicken breast and Jack cheese, served with crispy homemade potato chips
La Calle is a great spot for breakfast, casual lunches or relaxed evening gatherings in Jeddah.
I spent a Saturday morning there with friends and we enjoyed a vibrant breakfast. The menu offered a variety of options, ranging from Mediterranean flavors to sandwiches, eggs Benedict, fresh juices, and more.
We opted for four main dishes, including the avocado tuna sandu. My personal choice was the smoked salmon Benedict, a visually appealing dish with two medium-poached eggs served on a buttery muffin, topped with a beetroot hollandaise sauce that gave it a striking pink hue, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze. While beautifully presented, the eggs could have been more seasoned, and the sauce lacked depth in flavor.
The La Calle sandu is a club sandwich layered with fried eggs, smoked chicken breast and Jack cheese, served with crispy homemade potato chips.
Another standout dish was the Arabic breakfast, which captured the essence of authentic Arabian flavors. Served on a beautifully arranged tray, it included ful, pickles, hummus, falafel, honey and cream, a delightful combination that brought a taste of tradition to our table.
La Calle also offers a range of nutritious options including granola bowls, salads and vegan dishes. As for dessert, we indulged in the classic creme brulee — the caramelized sugar crust had the perfect crunch, making every spoonful a treat.
The service was great, with friendly staff and quick responses. The ambience was warm and inviting with large glass windows that allowed natural sunlight to flood the space, complemented by soothing background music.
Located on Prince Sultan Road, La Calle is open from 8 a.m. to midnight.
For more information visit @lacalle.sa on Instagram.
Riding the wave: Is the craze for sea moss supported by science?
- Natural product promises variety of health benefits
- Saudi dietary expert weighs in on supposed superfood
RIYADH: The global wellness industry in recent years has seen an influx of superfoods and natural remedies, each promising transformative health benefits.
Among these, sea moss, also known as Irish moss, has rapidly gained traction with health and beauty enthusiasts.
The trend has reached Saudi Arabia, where the wellness market is evolving rapidly, driven by a growing awareness of natural remedies and holistic health practices.
Saudis have a long history of using natural remedies, such as black seed oil and honey, for health and wellness. Sea moss fits seamlessly into this tradition as a plant-based, nutrient-dense option.
Sea moss is a type of red algae scientifically known as chondrus crispus. It thrives along the rocky coasts of the Atlantic in regions like Ireland, the Caribbean, and North America.
Traditionally used in Caribbean and Irish cultures, sea moss is valued for its nutrient-rich composition and versatility.
It is today branded as a superfood, finding its way into smoothies, skincare products, and supplements.
But is the hype over this supposed panacea supported by science?
Najla Al-Mutairi, a dietician at Aster Sanad Hospital in Riyadh, told Arab News that sea moss does contribute to overall nutrient intake, particularly for those with mineral deficiencies.
She said: “It is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including iodine, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and vitamins A, C, E, and K.”
Al-Mutairi added that sea moss enhanced energy levels and improved thyroid function.
It is also packed with antioxidants, which combat oxidative stress, and has antiviral and antibacterial properties that support the immune system.
She said: “Sea moss contains prebiotic fiber, which nourishes gut bacteria, aiding digestion and promoting a healthy gut microbiome.”
Al-Mutairi spoke of the skin benefits of sea moss as it hydrates the skin and provides essential nutrients like vitamins A and E, improving skin elasticity and reducing inflammation.
“For weight loss, its high-fiber content helps with satiety and regulates appetite,” she said.
Sea moss also contains anti-inflammatory compounds like omega-3 fatty acids and bioactive minerals that may alleviate joint pain and reduce inflammation.
But while sea moss offers numerous benefits, moderation is key.
Al-Mutairi said that overconsumption can lead to excessive iodine intake, causing thyroid dysfunction. High doses might also upset the digestive system due to its fiber content.
She added: “Pregnant women and children should consult a healthcare provider before using sea moss to avoid iodine-related complications or allergic reactions.
“While sea moss offers health benefits, some claims, like it being a miracle cure for chronic diseases, lack scientific backing.”
It is essential to approach these claims critically and rely on evidence-based information, she added.
Valerie Daccache, who works with the Jeddah-based brand Migrante, stressed the importance of correcting misconceptions about sea moss.
She told Arab News: “Many sellers make misleading claims, like saying sea moss is high in collagen because of its gel texture. That’s not true — it stimulates collagen production but contains very little collagen itself.”
The demand for sea moss in Saudi Arabia continues to grow as more people prioritize health and wellness, according to Bassma Idrees, co-founder of Zulu Sea Moss.
Idrees said: “The response from Saudi customers has been amazing. We’ve received incredible feedback and continue to grow.”
The company has developed flavors tailored to Saudi tastes, such as karkade (hibiscus), dates, and cinnamon.
Customers in the Kingdom are finding endless ways to incorporate sea moss into their routines, and Idrees added: “We’ve seen people use sea moss in everything — from soups and desserts to face masks and hair treatments.”
Health-conscious individuals are adding it to smoothies, teas, and even pre-workout drinks.
“It’s incredibly versatile,” said Daccache.
Idrees explained how her personal journey led to the creation of the brand. She said: “I was introduced to sea moss during a period of burnout when my energy, mood, and skin were all suffering. A friend recommended I try sea moss — a nutrient-rich superfood from the Caribbean — and the results were incredible.”
The future of sea moss in the Kingdom looks bright, with both brands optimistic about its growth.
Idrees said: “Health trends come and go, but sea moss is not a fleeting fad. The science behind its nutrient profile is undeniable, and more people are experiencing its positive effects.”
For now, the tide is firmly in sea moss’ favor, and it looks as though the superfood is set to become a staple in Saudi Arabia’s journey toward healthier living.
