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Senegal is substantially expanding its commitment to the Social and Solidarity Economy (ESS), with plans to dedicate the entire year 2026 to its advancement. This initiative, coupled with ongoing regional development efforts, signals a major push to integrate community-driven economic models into the nation’s broader growth strategy.
The National Fortnight of the Social and Solidarity Economy continued this weekend in Ngaye Mékhé, Thiès region, led by Minister of Microfinance, social and Solidarity Economy, Dr. Alioune dione.The event, building on the momentum from its launch on November 24, 2025, in Bignona, focuses on the theme: “The Social and Solidarity Economy, a socio-economic catalyst for the inclusive development of territories.”
Did you know?-Senegal’s National Change Agenda 2050 prioritizes the Social and Solidarity Economy (ESS) as a key driver of inclusive growth. The government aims to integrate ESS principles into national and regional development strategies.
Government Prioritizes Inclusive Growth Through ESS
Dr. Dione reaffirmed the government’s dedication to establishing the ESS as a cornerstone of national development, aligning with President Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye’s vision outlined in the National Transformation Agenda Senegal 2050.This direction is being actively implemented by Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko through the National Development Strategy (SND 2025-2029) and the Economic Recovery and Social Plan.
“By continuing this Fortnight in Ngaye Mékhé, we reaffirm that territorial solidarity development remains the key to the Senegal of tomorrow,” Dr. Dione stated, emphasizing the importance of local engagement.
Pro tip:-Productive Solidarity Cooperatives (CPS) are central to Senegal’s ESS strategy. The goal is to establish 1,000 CPS nationwide by the end of 2025, fostering economic inclusion and local value chains.
Ngaye Mékhé: A Strategic Hub for Local Economic Empowerment
The selection of Ngaye Mékhé as a key location for the Fortnight is purposeful. Dr. Dione highlighted the locality’s potential as a vital territory for fostering economic inclusion, bolstering local value chains, and supporting grassroots initiatives. The Thiès region, he noted, presents substantial opportunities for implementing the SND’s local policies.
In a concrete step towards bolstering the ESS, the minister announced the structuring of 20 new Productive Solidarity Cooperatives (CPS) within the municipality. This initiative contributes to the national goal of establishing 1,000 CPS by the end of 2025, with 872 already registered within the first eight months of the program. A senior official stated, “in statistical terms, we consumed 75% of our time budget to achieve 87.2% of our objective,” underscoring the rapid progress being made.
Reader question:-What is Senegal doing to support local industries? The government is piloting value chain development in Ngaye Mékhé, specifically focusing on the local skins and leathers industry to boost economic activity.
A Multifaceted Approach to ESS Development
Government action,coordinated by the Prime Minister,is now focused on several key areas: promoting productive and supportive ecosystems at the territorial level,structuring CPS across all regions,implementing the targeted Financing Strategy (SFC),enhancing skills development,advancing the Pact for Universal Financial Inclusion (PACTIFU),and integrating the ESS into regional development plans.
Ngaye Mékhé has been specifically designated as a pilot territory for developing value chains, with a particular emphasis on the local skins and leathers industry.
Recognizing Community Leadership and Solidarity
Dr. Dione lauded the residents of Ngaye Mékhé as a national example of territorial solidarity and community initiative. He also extended special recognition to Dr. Mouhamed Lom for his contributions to promoting the ESS.
The minister concluded by urging local stakeholders to sustain their momentum in building a robust, inclusive, and sustainable social and solidarity economy that benefits all territories. He called on local actors to maintain the momentum to build a
