Notably, about 45% of Senegal's land surface is covered by forests, 35% is designated as pasture or rangeland, 10% is designated for urban areas and infrastructure, and 20% is suitable for arable agriculture. The agricultural sector serves as Senegal’s primary industry, with peanuts being its most important cash and export crop. Senegal's economic landscape also encompasses sectors such as fishing, mining, manufacturing, and a thriving tourism industry, which is gaining interest from European travelers.
The Alliance has been working in Senegal since 2011 under the CGIAR Program on Climate Change, Agriculture, and Food Security (CCAFS), opening its official country office in Dakar in January 2022. With a strategic focus on climate change adaptation and mitigation, the Alliance is committed to promoting climate-smart agricultural practices, providing climate information services, and introducing innovative tools such as index-based insurance and credits, digital advancements, and activities that increase entrepreneurship with a focus on gender and youth. Our agenda in Senegal fosters sustainable agricultural practices, enhances climate resilience, and drives positive change for local communities. Through collaborations with key public and private institutions, the Alliance implements impactful projects that contribute to the development and resilience of Senegal's agricultural sector.