Russia is set to assist Senegal in boosting its agricultural sector, with plans to help restore seed reserves, introduce organic fertilizers, and provide specialized training for local professionals. This initiative was announced by the International Organization for Eurasian Cooperation (IOEC).
The partnership details were agreed upon in Diamniadio, where Modou Gaye Seck, advisor to the Senegalese Prime Minister on agricultural issues, met with Alexander Biryukov, IOEC's Vice President for African Affairs. The main areas of collaboration will include the restoration of Senegal's seed stock through the Senegalese Institute for Agricultural Research, supporting wheat cultivation, establishing a facility for organic fertilizer made from the waste of SOGAS (Senegal's main meat processing company), and offering scholarships to Senegalese students for agricultural studies and internships in Russia.
Russian business leaders, heads of farmers' associations, and key officials from the agricultural sector also attended the talks.
Biryukov emphasized that Senegal is seen as a strategic partner for Russia in Africa. According to him, the IOEC is already working on specific projects such as creating a seed bank, producing organic fertilizer, and setting up training programs for Senegalese experts in Russia. Official agreements to formalize these initiatives are expected soon.
Both sides also agreed to establish joint working groups within the IOEC and sign partnership agreements at the upcoming global forum "New Era — New Paths."
It's worth noting that in August 2024, the foreign ministers of Russia and Senegal met in Moscow and described bilateral relations as friendly and close. Later, in a November interview with Le Monde, Senegal's President Bassirou Diomaye Faye reiterated his country's openness to expanding cooperation with Russia.
