Sign in Subscribe
Food supply

Senegal's Agricultural Cooperatives Boost Food Security, Economic Growth, and Sustainable Jobs

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Agricultural cooperatives have transformed the agri-food value chains in Senegal, enabling farmers to negotiate better prices, access new markets, and create sustainable jobs. The Programme of Assitance for Competitiveness in West Africa - Senegal Component (PACAO-Senegal) has supported 29 new or modernized cooperatives, including the Fruit, Vegetable, and Livestock Producers' Cooperative (COOPROFEL). Founded in 2007 and revamped in 2021 with ITC's support, COOPROFEL has 635 members and accounts for 31% of national onion production and 29% of mango production.

Key Takeaways:

  • The cooperative structure has improved producers' access to markets and inputs, boosting food security and stimulating economic growth.
  • COOPROFEL, with 635 members, has seen significant changes since its overhaul in 2021, with members now accessing better prices, higher-quality inputs, and more stable incomes.
  • Trainings on good agricultural practices, marketing, leadership, and financial management have been provided to members, enhancing their skills and knowledge.
  • COOPROFEL has partnered with businesses like TropicaSem, which sold them over 78 tons of seeds in 2023, indicating increased market access and business opportunities.
  • The cooperatives can steer their produces through the value chain to create new, high-value products, generating jobs and growing incomes.
  • PACAO-Senegal's support has strengthened a vital link in the value chain, facilitating market access for cooperative members and promoting a virtuous circle of sustainable development.

Statistics:

  • 29 new or modernized cooperatives have been established or supported by PACAO-Senegal, bringing together nearly 70,000 producer-members.
  • COOPROFEL has 635 members (as of 2025) and accounts for:

+ 31% of national onion production.

+ 29% of mango production.

  • Over 78 tons of seeds were sold to COOPROFEL by TropicaSem in 2023.

Sources:

  • M2 PRESSWIRE - June 23, 2025 - "With farm co-ops, Senegal improves its agri-food value chains"
  • Programme of Assitance for Competitiveness in West Africa - Senegal Component (PACAO-Senegal)
  • International Trade Centre (ITC)
  • TropicaSem
  • COOPROFEL

Read more