Senegal develops national wheat strategy to reduce imports

30, 2025, bringing together farmers, researchers, processors, and government officials to shape the future of wheat cultivation. Led by the Directorate of Research and Innovation under the FIRST ACT project, the workshop marked a critical step in aligning stakeholders and setting clear objectives. Since 2023, the Senegalese Institute for Agricultural Research (ISRA) has developed and tested eight local wheat varieties, currently trialed in the Senegal River Valley. These demonstration plots have shown promising results in yield and adaptability to local conditions. Project coordinator El Hadj Malick Lèye emphasized the collaborative effort, stating, “This program unites all actors and partners to discuss the rollout of a national wheat development strategy.” The forthcoming strategy will focus on scaling up seed distribution, organizing the wheat value chain, and attracting public and private investment. It will also address challenges such as productivity, local processing ...