The African Development Bank (AfDB) has committed €55.33 million to Senegal to support the second phase of the Water Valorisation for Value Chains Development Project.
This initiative focuses on enhancing agricultural production, creating jobs, and increasing income across nine regions of Senegal.
With an emphasis on improving the use of surface water and groundwater, the project aims to address critical challenges in agricultural development and offer new opportunities for youth and female entrepreneurs. 
Boosting Agricultural Production with Water Valorisation for Value Chains Development
The project’s second phase will expand upon the successful outcomes of the first phase, which have been well-received by local communities.
According to Mohamed Chérif, AfDB’s Country Manager for Senegal, the new phase aims to consolidate these achievements and address emerging challenges. Key components include developing 9,000 hectares of land, including 1,950 hectares of saline soil, and strengthening 15 existing irrigated zones.
Additionally, the project will build 10 solar-powered water sources for livestock and install 20 kilometers of drinking water systems to support the surrounding areas.
These efforts will significantly enhance the agricultural infrastructure in the target regions, thereby improving food security and boosting local economies.
Notably, the project focuses on empowering young people and women through agribusiness opportunities, thereby fostering greater involvement in Senegal’s agricultural value chains.
Creating Employment and Fostering Entrepreneurship through Water Valorisation for Value Chains
In addition to agricultural development, the Water Valorisation for Value Chains Project includes a strong focus on job creation and youth entrepreneurship. The second phase will facilitate the construction of 1,250 farms across 2,000 hectares, and establish 40 agricultural mechanisation centers, 50 multifunctional platforms, and 50 solar-powered processing units.
Furthermore, the project will support the development of 180 livestock production units and 60 aquaculture farms, providing ample opportunities for youth to engage in sustainable agricultural practices.
Marketing infrastructure will also be a key feature, with the construction of 130 kilometers of production lanes, 20 storage facilities, and four consolidation centers equipped with cold rooms capable of holding between 300 to 500 tonnes.
These developments will enhance the post-harvest handling and distribution of agricultural produce, ultimately supporting local economies and generating employment.
Water Valorisation for Value Chains Enhances Senegal’s Agricultural Future
The €55 million investment in Senegal’s Water Valorisation for Value Chains Development Project represents a significant step towards improving agricultural production, employment, and incomes across the country.
With its emphasis on water resource use and encouragement of entrepreneurial endeavors, this project is expected to have a long-term effect on Senegal’s agriculture industry. Nearly 57,000 households will directly benefit from the initiative, improving the lives of about 570,000 people.
As the project progresses, it is expected to foster sustainable development in the country’s agricultural value chains, contributing to long-term prosperity.
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