WAFA & AFRIQOM Fertilizer Club Africa Conference 2024: Three Days to Transform Agriculture in West Africa
From November 11 to 13, 2024, Dakar Hosted the AFRIQOM Fertilizer Club Africa Conference in Partnership with WAFA
Under the theme “From the Nairobi Declaration to Achieving Fertilizer and Soil Health Goals,” this strategic conference brought together decision-makers, industry leaders, and institutional partners to address major agricultural challenges across the continent.
The summit culminated in WAFA’s Annual General Meeting, marking a significant turning point for the association’s organization and future direction.
✨ Day 1: Discovery, Networking, and Warm Hospitality
The first day began with an immersive tour of the SEDAB Organo-Mineral Plant in Diamniadio, a model facility for the production of organo-mineral fertilizers. Participants had the opportunity to exchange ideas with local experts and deepen their knowledge of sustainable agricultural practices tailored to Africa’s realities.
💡 Special thanks to Moulaye Kandé and Modou Thiam, co-directors of SEDAB, for their outstanding commitment and exceptional hospitality.
📍 The discussions continued over lunch, hosted by SEDAB at the Radisson Blu Hotel, providing a professional yet convivial setting that laid the groundwork for future collaborations.
🌟 The day concluded with a welcome reception in Dakar, fostering stronger connections among industry stakeholders, decision-makers, and ministerial delegations.
🌍 Day 2: Debates, Strategic Initiatives, and Collaborations
Day two began with an inspiring address by Senegal’s Minister of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty, and Livestock, who was granted WAFA’s honorary presidency by outgoing president Moussa Diabaté. The minister pledged to serve as WAFA’s advocate with policymakers and institutions, a key role in advancing the organization’s goals.
1️⃣ Highlights of Plenary Sessions
- Market & Trends: In-depth analysis of market trends and strategic projections.
- Regional Market Challenges and Opportunities: A focus on the unique challenges and opportunities within West Africa’s agricultural markets.
2️⃣ Key WAFA Initiatives
Dr. Innocent Okuku, WAFA’s Executive Secretary, presented the association’s flagship projects, including efforts to:
- Strengthen African soil health.
- Improve access to quality fertilizers.
- Support farmers through sustainable policies and practices.
3️⃣ Innovations Driving Agriculture
- Industry Dynamics and Soil Health: Presented by Kido Kouassi (IFDC, Feed the Future ENGRAIS Project).
- Cutting-Edge Technologies for the African Market: Asmae Ismaili (AFRIQOM) showcased DataBoards, offering precise and real-time market analyses.
4️⃣ Networking Opportunities
Following intense debates, a networking lunch sponsored by OCP Africa fostered collaboration among sector players.
5️⃣ From Policy to Commercial Action
Under the leadership of Patrice Annequin (IFDC), a strategic session explored the transition from political declarations to tangible business opportunities. Experts from ECOWAS, the African Union, and ministries of agriculture across multiple countries shared insights on:
- Implementing the Nairobi Declaration.
- National and regional roadmaps for fertilizers and soil health.
🌟 The day ended with a memorable dinner hosted by AFRIQOM, set against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, offering a conducive atmosphere for strategic discussions and promising agreements.
📈 Day 3: Innovation and the Annual General Meeting
The final day opened with discussions centered on innovation and finance, featuring:
1️⃣ Session 4: Finance & Innovation
- E-Commerce in Agriculture: Presented by Armand Yoka (ATEX), highlighting ecosystem approaches to unlocking trade.
- Organic and Organo-Mineral Fertilizers: Showcased by Moulaye Kandé and Modou Thiam, emphasizing sustainable agricultural solutions.
2️⃣ The Annual General Meeting: A New Chapter for WAFA
The conference concluded with WAFA’s Annual General Meeting, featuring:
- The election of a new leadership team, headed by Al Hassane Sienou, CEO of TROPIC AGROCHEM, as President, supported by a dynamic team.
- Adoption of ambitious resolutions to promote sustainable and resilient agriculture in West Africa.
Gratitude and Acknowledgments
This event would not have been possible without the support of our valued sponsors:
IFDC, TROPIC AGROCHEM, SEDAB, TOGUNA, GOLDEN FERTILIZER, and DPA.
We also extend our thanks to the Ministries of Agriculture from Togo, Niger, Senegal, Mali, and Ghana, whose representatives graced this event and reinforced our shared commitment to agricultural development.
A heartfelt thanks to Colonel Moussa Diabaté, WAFA’s outgoing president, for his exceptional leadership and unwavering support of all the association’s activities.
A Momentum to Build On
With the support of its partners, WAFA is committed to building a prosperous agricultural future for West Africa. The 2024 AFRIQOM Fertilizer Club Africa Conference marks a pivotal step forward, and we look forward to continuing this transformative journey to achieve our ambitious goals.
See you in 2025 as we advance this shared vision for Africa’s agricultural development!