The Senegalese agricultural sector is currently facing a period of uncertainty and concern, particularly for farmers who have embarked on the peanut marketing campaign in 2024. Pessimistic forecasts from producers suggest significant financial losses, a direct consequence of various factors such as the quality of seeds supplied by the State and the lack of rainfall.
According to producers’ estimates, turnover could fall significantly compared to the previous year, with projections suggesting a harvest of between 700,000 and 800,000 tonnes, well below the 1.5 million tonnes recorded during the previous campaign. This drastic drop in production raises fears of major economic consequences for stakeholders in the agricultural sector, who largely depend on peanut cultivation for their livelihoods.
Faced with these legitimate fears, the authorities are reassuring, stating that national needs in terms of seeds and derived products will be largely covered. Sonacos CEO El Hadj Ndane Diagne assures that the figures will be communicated transparently, taking into account the realities on the ground. In addition, the government has decided to increase the purchase price of a kilo of peanuts, from 280 to 305 CFA francs, in order to support farmers in the face of this difficult situation.
Despite these support measures and the optimistic forecasts of the authorities, it is undeniable that the challenges remain numerous for Senegalese farmers. The need to modernize agricultural practices, improve access to technologies and quality inputs, as well as strengthen resilience to climatic hazards, remain essential priorities to ensure the sustainability of the agricultural sector in the country.
Ultimately, the current situation of the peanut campaign in Senegal highlights the structural challenges facing the agricultural sector, but also underlines the importance of coherent and adapted agricultural policies to guarantee food security and the well-being of rural populations. It is imperative to take concerted and sustainable measures to support farmers and ensure a prosperous future for Senegalese agriculture.