Senegal is making bold moves to modernize its agricultural sector and combat one of its most persistent challenges—post-harvest losses. On the fertile plains of Mbane, a newly inaugurated 15,000-ton cold storage facility is now operational, boosting the country’s total agricultural storage capacity to 105,000 tons. This milestone marks a crucial step in ensuring year-round availability of staples like potatoes and onions, two of the nation’s most consumed crops.
Developed by Swami Agri, this eighth facility is not just a warehouse—it is a strategic tool to transform the agricultural landscape. “This cold room is about securing our farmers’ livelihoods and guaranteeing continuous food availability for our people,” said Souleymane Ndoye, Chairman of the company’s board.
The project aligns with Senegal’s broader vision for food sovereignty, driven by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty, and Livestock. Minister Dr. Mabouba Diagne emphasized that Senegal requires 130,000 tons of potatoes and 350,000 tons of onions annually by 2025, and achieving this goal hinges on efficient post-harvest management and private sector engagement.
Post-harvest losses remain a significant hurdle in sub-Saharan Africa, with estimates suggesting that 30–50% of perishable crops are lost due to lack of infrastructure. In Senegal, where agriculture accounts for over 16% of GDP and employs about 70% of the labor force, tackling this issue is critical not only for food security but also for economic development.
In response, the government and private stakeholders are co-investing in climate-smart solutions, including a plan to construct seven solar-powered cold storage facilities across different regions. This future investment of 35.7 billion FCFA (approx. $59 million) reflects a strategic shift towards sustainability and regional equity in agricultural development.
“These facilities will directly benefit smallholder farmers, who are the backbone of our food system,” said Dr. Diagne. “We are building a resilient and competitive agricultural sector—not just for today, but for generations to come.”
Senegal’s cold storage initiative is not an isolated development but part of a regional trend. Across West Africa, countries are increasingly recognizing the role of post-harvest infrastructure in reducing imports, enhancing exports, and achieving food self-sufficiency.
With its latest investment in cold storage, Senegal is sending a strong message: food security starts with infrastructure. By supporting farmers, reducing waste, and ensuring steady supply, these strategic moves bring the country closer to its goal of agricultural self-reliance and economic empowerment. The road ahead involves scaling these solutions nationwide and ensuring that even the smallest producers benefit from the momentum.
