The Senegalese government has launched trials in the Dakar region to cultivate wheat as part of its efforts to prioritize agriculture and achieve food sovereignty. Wheat is a staple food in Senegal, and the country imports 800,000 tons annually. The trials leverage the current cold season, which is suitable for wheat cultivation, aiming to reduce dependence on imports.
Oumar Mbengue, Dakar’s Regional Director of Rural Development, is optimistic about the upcoming harvest. The Misr 1 variety, sourced from Egypt and planted in December, seems well-adapted to the region’s climate. This fast-maturing wheat variety offers a potential solution for domestic bread production.
President Bassirou Diomaye Faye's government is committed to achieving food sovereignty within its first term. The appointment of Mabouba Diagne, an experienced agricultural investor, as Minister of Agriculture reflects this commitment. Diagne emphasizes the potential of a robust agricultural policy to drive national development and job creation.
Encouraged by initial results, officials plan to extend the wheat cultivation program to other regions like Saint-Louis, Thies, and Kolda. Expanding wheat production across Senegal could significantly reduce reliance on imports.
Senegal's wheat experiment demonstrates the nation's proactive approach to food security. Continued success could have a significant impact on the country's food import bill and contribute to achieving its food sovereignty goals.
Please find original version of article below:
Senegal sees hope for wheat production, aims for food sovereignty | APAnews - African Press Agency
The information shared by the Islamic Organization for Food Security (“IOFS”) on iofs.org.kz (the “Site”) serves solely for general informational purposes. As a non-profit international organization, IOFS provides this information in good faith, with no intention to commercialize, profit, or exploit any content. Commercial use, including reselling, charging for access, redistribution, or creating derivative works, such as unofficial translations based on these documents, is strictly prohibited. All posts, publications, texts, and any other information on the Site, owned by authors and references, are appropriately linked.
IOFS disclaims any liability for loss or damage of any kind resulting from the use of the Site. Your understanding and compliance with these terms contribute to maintaining the informative and non-commercial nature of our platform.
