Upgrading the capacities of micro and small agro-processing enterprises to improve sector visibility locally and nationally

Republic of Senegal

Amount: € 164,555.00

Overview

The aim of the Enda Graf Sahel project in Senegal was to ensure that the role and initiatives of micro and small agribusiness enterprises, specifically those involving women, are recognised and better accounted for in the development of public policies. It further improved the effective participation of female representatives from the agri-food industry in local and national policy making initiatives. Actions focused on building organisational capacity to influence policy, encouraging exchanges between professional organisations in the agri-food industry and creating alliances to form pressure groups better able to influence decision-makers. The project helped to highlight the important contribution women make to local economies and provided a better understanding of the challenges facing the agri-food industry. It emphasized the role of women to ensure food security and job creation. The advocacy campaigns carried out during the project facilitated a dialogue with local and state authorities, the establishment of an inter-ministerial framework to work on the recognition of women's trades in the agri-food sector and validation of skills.  The project thus addresses Aspiration 1 of the African Union’s Agenda 2063, of a prosperous Africa based on inclusive growth and sustainable development and Aspiration 6, of an Africa where development is people-driven, unleashing the potential of its women and youth.

Key results

• Enda Graf Sahel project improved effective participation of participants in the agri-food industry in local and national policy making. Actions focused on building organisational capacity to influence policy and encouraged exchanges between professional organisations working in the agri-food industry and the creation of an alliance between them to form a pressure group better able to influence decision-makers.
• Four studies were carried out on the production of local cereals, fruit and vegetables, processing of fish products and street catering. The study enabled professional organisations to have a better understanding of the challenges facing their sector, particularly in terms of their contribution to food security and job creation and to plan advocacy to influence local and national government with respect to the roles and responsibilities of women vendors.
• The studies also highlighted the constraints faced by players in these sectors, in particular access to equipment, the lack of training and, above all, the lack of support from the public authorities. Training sessions for 1,073 women were conducted, covering nutrition, hygiene, conservation, food processing, literacy, business skills, computer skills and marketing.