The curtains fell on the National Rice Conference after bringing together more than 350 stakeholders from the Senegalese agricultural sector for three days of conclave. The event allowed participants to explore the multiple challenges that hinder the development of the rice sector in Senegal and the river valley, as well as to propose solutions to revitalize this sector, which is essential to food security.
Ousseynou Ndiaye, the President of the Interprofessional Rice Council (CIRIZ), clarified that the Minister of Agriculture, Dr Mabouba Diagne, did not promise the cancellation of farmers’ debt as announced, but committed to work closely with banks to enable producers in difficulty to restart their activities.
Seyni Ndao, the rapporteur of the meeting, presented a set of recommendations developed during these discussions conducted in an inclusive manner. These proposals, which include a ten-year vision for the development of the rice sector, aim to transform the rice growing landscape in Senegal and guarantee sustainable food autonomy.
In his closing speech, the Director General of SAED expressed his satisfaction with the richness of the discussions held. Alassane Ba praised the moderation work of Yamar Mbodj, executive director of the Rural Hub, while thanking all the participants as well as the technical and financial partners present. The appointment is made for next year.
-NDARINFO.COM
Senegal
