Sénégal Fruitière de Développement (SFD)

The Problem

Despite creating better employment opportunities and better products, there is a gap in the Senegalese banana market for local banana production. Currently sellers in the markets rely on imported bananas which are smaller, not as tasty and have a limited shelf-life due lack of packaging. Moreover, as the product is seasonal, the sellers are unable to gain income from bananas all year round. Main reason for this is that local banana production in remote areas, such as in Sinthia Koundara, is a challenge due to poor infrastructure and distance from the capital and its vital resources for a smooth operation. SDF has its headquarters in the capital and a fleet of trucks, which gives them the opportunity for local banana production.

The local bananas produced by SFD are also different from the imported ones as they are available year-round. They also offer a longer shelf life due to a shorter transport duration. This significantly reduces income losses for sellers and will also lead to the creation of indirect employment: producers, transporters, ripeners, and distributors (mainly female) of bananas in different regions of Senegal.  

The Solution

By facilitating local banana production, the KOURIENTINE project will be able to create a significant and positive impact on youth, with a particular emphasis on addressing young men and women’s ambitions and job aspirations. 

This is done by offering targeted employment opportunities. Many young people do not want to work in traditional agricultural roles, which is why the project will create jobs in a variety of fields, including banana cultivation, packaging, transportation, marketing, and administration. The objective is to match the skills and aspirations of young men and women by offering roles that will align with their individual goals and interests. To ensure that young people are well-prepared for their roles the project will provide them comprehensive training and skill development programs that include topics such as soft skills, leadership development, and gender sensitivity training.

Moreover, the KOURIENTINE project aims to empower youth to become project leaders. Especially women are encouraged to take on leadership roles in agriculture, breaking down gender barriers.  

The KOURIENTINE project does not only attempt to attract and hire youth, but they also aim to retain them. This will be done by applying gender inclusive policies to ensure inclusivity and safety at the workplace. Youth will also be supported through mentorship programs.  

Finally, the KOURIENTINE project will implement a youth council encourage to engagement from youth for designing the project.