Senegal hosts first international aquaculture fair in Dakar

Senegal has launched its first International Aquaculture Fair in Dakar, a three-day event aimed at strengthening food sovereignty through investment, innovation, and strategic partnerships. Organized by the National Aquaculture Agency (ANA) and Atlantic Mariculture, the fair brings together 60 exhibitors and professionals from over 30 countries.

In 2024, Senegal produced 2,074 tonnes of aquaculture products, supporting 3,045 direct jobs across 342 supervised farms. Dr. Samba Ka, Director General of the ANA, emphasized the need to accelerate development in Africa, noting that the continent currently accounts for less than 3% of global aquaculture production despite its vast natural resources.

Spain participated as the guest of honor, with more than ten companies represented. Spanish Ambassador Maria Dolores Rios Peset described the future of Senegalese aquaculture as highly promising, as Spanish private sector interests look toward direct investment in the region.