Senegalese football star Sadio Mané has launched a significant agro-industrial project in his hometown of Bambali, southern Senegal. The project, known as SM10 Agro, was launched on September 19 and aims to expand mango processing and create jobs. The CFA11.7bn ($20.4m) investment includes a processing plant with an annual capacity of 8,500 tonnes of mangoes, producing mango pulp, dried fruit, and mango butter.
The complex will also feature a 500-hectare plantation of Kent mangoes and is located in Casamance, Senegal's leading mango-producing region. However, the region has limited processing facilities, contributing to significant post-harvest losses. Senegal loses an estimated 30 to 45 per cent of harvested fruit annually due to poor farming practices, harvesting and transportation challenges, and limited processing outlets.
Mané's project aims to address these challenges by allowing more mangoes to be processed locally. This includes fruit that may not qualify for export to European Union markets due to phytosanitary requirements. The facility is expected to create jobs and develop agriculture in the region. Mané stated that he wants his legacy to extend beyond football, saying he doesn't want to be remembered only for the goals he scored.
A 2023 study by the Initiative Prospective Agricole et Rurale found that existing mango processing facilities in Casamance were concentrated mainly in the Ziguinchor region. In contrast, Sédhiou and Kolda remained poorly equipped despite producing local mango varieties. The study also identified limited access to packaging and labelling services in Casamance as a challenge for processors.
Mané's investment comes as Senegal's mango export industry recovers from recent difficulties linked to fruit-fly infestations and other phytosanitary problems. In 2021, Senegal exported about 27,000 tonnes of mangoes, but export volumes declined following problems that affected access to the European market. However, exports to Europe have reportedly risen to more than 19,000 tonnes in 2026.
The growth in exports is attributed to improved phytosanitary measures, particularly efforts to control fruit flies. Mané's project is expected to contribute to the growth of Senegal's mango industry and provide more opportunities for local farmers and processors. The project was launched in Bambali, a town in the Sédhiou Region of Casamance.
Mané's investment in the mango processing plant is part of his efforts to give back to his community. The project is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy and provide opportunities for young people in the region. Key initiatives like this can help to boost economic growth and reduce poverty in rural areas.
Key points
- Sadio Mané invests $20.4m in mango processing plant in hometown Bambali.
- The project aims to create jobs and develop agriculture in the region.
- The plant will have an annual capacity of 8,500 tonnes of mangoes.
