The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has strengthened its collaboration with key development partners in Touba, Senegal, including Cheikh Ahmadoul Khadim University (UCAK) and the Touba Ca Kanam association, to tackle post-harvest losses and promote sustainable food systems. The engagement took place during a series of meetings linked to FAO’s project on improving post-harvest management across priority agrifood value chains, aimed at reducing food losses and improving efficiency in the food system.
Discussions focused on expanding cooperation in areas such as innovation, training, women’s empowerment, community participation, and environmental protection. FAO emphasized the role of UCAK as a strategic academic institution that can help address food loss challenges, especially during large gatherings like the Grand Magal of Touba, where food demand and surplus management become critical issues.
The organization outlined plans to introduce simple, locally adapted technologies for food processing and recycling in partnership with the university. These solutions are expected to reduce food waste, improve soil fertility through organic reuse, and support vulnerable communities while also creating opportunities for skills development and youth employment across agricultural value chains.
The Rector of UCAK welcomed the partnership, noting that community service is central to the university’s mission and that collaboration with FAO aligns with its broader educational and social objectives. FAO also highlighted the importance of linking academic knowledge with practical community-based solutions to strengthen the entire agricultural ecosystem from production to market access.
In parallel, FAO is deepening its engagement with the Touba Ca Kanam association to advance environmental sustainability initiatives. Discussions included converting food waste into organic fertilizer and biogas, contributing to a circular bioeconomy and reducing environmental pressure while generating local benefits.
Both partners are also exploring broader cooperation in women’s empowerment, social protection, and agricultural value chain development. FAO praised the association’s self-management and financing model as a strong example of community-driven development that could be replicated across West Africa.
During the mission, FAO also visited the Ndame health post, a facility built by the Touba Ca Kanam association. The organization commended it as a strong example of local initiative and community-led investment in essential social infrastructure, improving access to healthcare and enhancing overall well-being in the region.
