Senegal’s prime minister outlines agricultural priorities for 2026-2027

During a recent Council of Ministers meeting, Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko focused his remarks on the comprehensive preparations for Senegal’s upcoming 2026-2027 winter agricultural campaign. While commending the commendable efforts and achievements of national entities such as the Senegalese Institute of Agricultural Research (ISRA) and Industries Chimiques du Sénégal (ICS) in producing certified seeds and essential fertilizers, the head of government presented a candid assessment of the sector. He highlighted persistent and significant structural weaknesses that continue to impede the Executive’s overarching goals for achieving national food sovereignty.

Addressing seed autonomy, credit access, and urgent storage infrastructure needs

Among the critical challenges identified by the Prime Minister are the recurring shortage of seed autonomy, observed quality inconsistencies during the previous campaign, deficiencies within the producer targeting system, and persistent barriers to accessing agricultural credit. Ousmane Sonko also drew attention to inadequate maintenance of farming equipment and a striking lack of sufficient storage capacities across the nation.

To rectify distribution imbalances and eliminate the diversion of vital agricultural inputs, he issued directives to accelerate the digitalization of the entire agricultural supply chain. This initiative builds upon the proven success observed in pilot zones like Tivaouane and Nioro. Pending a comprehensive overhaul of agricultural subsidies, government services are mandated to ensure rigorous transparency regarding costs and the effective, nationwide availability of inputs throughout Senegal.