Jdidi Hassouna, Lassad's grandfather, was born on 6 April 1914 into a family whose life had been closely tied to agriculture for generations. He grew up in Hammamet at a time when the city was still a fertile centre of farming. Where hotels, restaurants and shops stand today, wide fields and gardens full of citrus trees, jasmine and fragrant blossoms once stretched.
His deep connection to the land and his belief in agriculture made him an ambassador of his homeland. He brought his region's produce to the capitals of the world and was valued for his experience, wisdom and craftsmanship.
He also left traces beyond Tunisia. During the reign of King Idris, Jdidi Hassouna contributed to Libya's agricultural development. From the nurseries of Hammamet he brought plants and young trees to Libya. His reputation as a farmer, entrepreneur and visionary spread far.
Thanks to his knowledge and merits he enjoyed high esteem and was close to President Habib Bourguiba. Jdidi Hassouna was the father of eleven children who carried on his name, his values and his love of agriculture. In the Bouficha region he built a continuously working olive oil mill. He treated the people who worked there with care and respect – like members of his own family.
Yet despite his successes, he carried a great dream in his heart until the end, one he could no longer fulfil in his lifetime. Jdidi Hassouna passed away in 1983, on 6 April – the very day of his birth.
His life's work and his love of the earth live on in the following generations – in his grandson Lassad, in Ksar Ezzit Organic Estate and in the spirit of ANISO Kraft Olive. His memory, his values and his life's work remain alive in his family and in the history of his homeland. May he rest in peace.
