"Senegal's mango campaign is due to resume in the next few days, after a halt forced by the country's security situation and clashes between opposition demonstrators and police," reassures Mohamed Mbengue, a Senegalese mango producer.
Mohamed said, "We're continuing to work normally. The crops are available and ready to be shipped by air and road. We already have all the documentation we need to export, and we're just waiting for the Ministry of Agriculture to resume its services, and for the airport and roads to be unblocked, which should happen in 2 to 3 days. There is currently a great demand for Senegalese mangoes, and we are doing our best to satisfy this demand."
The exporter is confident despite the difficulties facing the sector: "The mango industry in Senegal will see bright days this year. We have overcome many challenges this season, compared to the last one. We have adapted our production and export calendars to avoid the fruit fly problem, and have received significant support from the Ministry of Agriculture to treat these pests. This season's volumes will be much higher than last season, and the quality is very good."
Demand for Senegalese mangoes comes from Morocco and European countries such as Spain, France, the Netherlands, and Germany. Mohamed adds: "We've been doing business with Moroccan customers for a long time, and we're delighted with this partnership. Morocco absorbs large volumes, and Senegalese mangoes are favored there for their quality and low road transport costs. We continue to supply this strategic market."
The producer adds, "We also have loyal customers in Europe, and are reaching a new clientele who are falling back on Senegalese mangoes in a context of falling production in other West African countries, due to phytosanitary problems and insufficient rainfall. This year, the start of the Senegalese mango season was eagerly awaited in Europe."
Mohamed concludes: "And our customers are right to wait for the start of our calendars, as the quality is very good this year, with the good coloring of 60-70%, good brix, and sizes of 7,8,9,10, and 12. Mangoes destined for export are also totally free of fly bites or any other problems."
For more information:
Mohamed Mbengue
Unionagri Des Niayes
Tel: +221 77 179 04 19
Email: niayesunionagrides@gmail.com