Senegalese football star Sadio Mane has returned to his hometown of Bambali in the Casamance region, but this time not to play football. Instead, he has launched a large-scale agricultural and industrial project aimed at contributing to the region's development and creating new job opportunities. On Saturday, September 19, Mane inaugurated the SM10 Agro project, a groundnut processing complex.
The project, which has a total investment of 11.7 billion African francs ($18.7 million), is expected to process 8,500 tons of groundnuts per year. The complex will have three specialized factories producing groundnut paste and oil, as well as a training center for agricultural and food industry professionals. Mane chose to invest in his home country and region, expressing his desire to be associated with more than just his football achievements.
The project is expected to create over 1,000 direct jobs and contribute to the region's economic development. Mane emphasized that the project will enable young people from Casamance to build their future in their home region, rather than being forced to seek opportunities elsewhere. The project is set to start production in March 2027.
Senegalese Minister of Industry and Trade, Serigne Go Diop, attended the inauguration and highlighted the importance of the project. She noted that the continued export of raw materials from the region without processing and valorization deprives the local and national economy of significant added value. Diop considered Mane's project as a practical solution to this problem.
The SM10 Agro project is a significant investment in the region's agricultural sector, which is a major contributor to Senegal's economy. Groundnuts are one of the country's main cash crops, and the project aims to increase the value added to this production. The complex will also provide training and capacity-building programs for local farmers and industry professionals.
Mane's investment in the project demonstrates his commitment to giving back to his community and contributing to Senegal's economic development. The project is expected to have a positive impact on the region's economy and provide new opportunities for young people. The football star has shown that he is dedicated to making a difference off the pitch.
The SM10 Agro project is set to become a major player in Senegal's agricultural and food industry. With its expected production capacity and job creation potential, the project will contribute to the country's economic growth and development. Key stakeholders, including government officials and local communities, have welcomed the project as a positive development for the region.
Key points
- Sadio Mane invests $18.7 million in a large-scale groundnut project in Senegal.
- The project is expected to create over 1,000 direct jobs and contribute to the region's economic development.
- Production is set to start in March 2027, with a capacity to process 8,500 tons of groundnuts per year.
