Senegalese producers of Kent mango in the Fattick region are expecting a good season, breaking with the turmoil of last year, assures Aminata Dominique Diouf, of the producer Domaine Agricole de Nema.
"Last year, the season was catastrophic and the harvest was poor. Due to insufficient rainfall and cold snaps that caused the plants to abort. We only produced 200 tons, which is well below our production capacity".
"This year, on the other hand, we have not had these problems and the yield looks good, in terms of quality and volume. Rainfall has been more than adequate and we haven't had any specific problems. Operations are also on track for the harvest period," continues Aminata. The producer will make her export calendars available from May 25 to July 2.
In terms of quality, Aminata adds: "If the Kent mangoes of Senegal are to meet a certain level of quality, thanks to a suitable climate and soil, it also depends on the producers. There are two types of production, traditional orchards and more modern orchards that have irrigation systems and operate in accordance with production and export standards. The quality is obviously better for the second category."
"At Nema Farms, we not only fall into the second category, but we refrain from exporting when the quality does not meet our expectations. For example, we do not export the very first crops of the season because of their average quality. We prefer to keep a good relationship with satisfied and loyal customers."
The producer currently supplies Holland, but is considering expanding her acreage to meet the growing demand for Kent Senegalese mangoes. "We are receiving requests from Germany and England, and we are expanding our acreage to enter these markets in the near future.
In terms of price, it is still too early to make a statement, says Aminata, "It will depend on the market, we will have a clear idea next month."
For more information:
Aminata Dominique Diouf
Domaine Agricole du Nema
+221 77 480 42 32
aminatadominique@hotmail.com