In the framework of the Diomaye Plan for Casamance, the Senegalese authorities and the Italian Government have concluded a strategic partnership estimated at EUR 140 million, aimed at promoting a modern and sustainable agriculture in this region. This ambitious project is spearheaded by the Minister of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty and Livestock, Dr Mabouba Diagne, and the Secretary of State for Cooperatives and Peasant Encouragement, Dr Alpha Ba. It benefits from the support of the Mattei Plan, an initiative of the Italian government aimed at strengthening cooperation with African countries. The multinational BF International Best Fields Best Food, leader in the Italian agro-industry, is planning to set up a high-tech pilot farm in Casamance. This structure should serve as a showcase for the dissemination of innovative and inclusive agricultural practices, while contributing to the food autonomy of Senegal. The partnership agreement, signed in April 2025, involves several stakeholders: the CEO of BF International, Federico Vecchioni, the mayor of Kaour, Seckou Ndiaye, and Senegalese and Italian institutional representatives, including S.E. Caterina Bertolini, Ambassador of Italy to Senegal, and the Minister Mabouba Diagne.. The project is part of the AREA initiative (Action for the Reinforcement of Agro-Food Ecosystems in Africa), a public-private partnership programme supported by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) and CIHEAM Bari, the International Centre for Mediterranean Agricultural Cooperation. Cooperation was also highlighted at the 44th Conference of the FAO, recently held in Rome. On this occasion, the Senegalese delegation was honoured at an official dinner bringing together the Presidents of Coldiretti, the largest agricultural organisation in Europe, and the Director of the Italian Cooperation. This recognition symbolises the strategic importance of Senegal within international agricultural partnerships and the common will to strengthen food security.
Cooperation between Senegal and Italy: €140 million for a sustainable agriculture in Casamance
