Senegal becomes first West African country to join International Dairy Federation

SENEGAL – Senegal has officially become the first country in West Africa to join the International Dairy Federation (IDF) at the 2024 World Dairy Summit, which was held from October 15 to 18 in Paris, France. 

With this membership, Senegal joins four other African countries; Kenya, Rwanda, South Africa, and Zimbabwe, in this global organization, further strengthening the region’s ties with the global dairy industry.

Founded in 1903 and based in Paris, the IDF represents over 40 national dairy associations, federations, and industry organizations, accounting for more than 75% of global milk production.

Through its membership, Senegal is expected to benefit from the IDF’s extensive network, gaining access to the latest technological advancements and knowledge to boost the country’s growing dairy sector.

Senegal’s dairy industry faces significant challenges, despite steady growth in recent years. Local production remains insufficient to meet domestic demand, with nearly half of the country’s milk and dairy product consumption being met through imports.

A recent report by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), published in July 2023, indicates that Senegal’s milk production increased by 15.2% between 2017 and 2021, rising from 243.5 million liters to approximately 280.6 million liters. 

This growth is largely attributed to the genetic improvement of local cattle breeds and the transition from extensive to semi-intensive farming systems.

Despite these advancements, Senegal still relies heavily on imported milk products, a situation common across much of West Africa. 

Alongside Nigeria, Mali, and Burkina Faso, Senegal is one of the largest markets for dairy products in the region. 

By joining the IDF, the country could access improved production technologies and expertise, helping to reduce its dependency on imports and further strengthening its local dairy supply chain.

The 2024 IDF World Dairy Summit, which served as the platform for Senegal’s membership announcement, focused on innovation and sustainability as central themes shaping the future of the dairy industry. 

Outgoing IDF President Piercristiano Brazzale emphasized the role of technological and process innovations in helping the dairy sector produce more efficiently, reduce waste, and continue providing high-quality, nutritious products. 

He also called for the industry to align with global sustainability goals, stressing the need to reduce emissions while recognizing the positive environmental contributions of dairy farming, such as providing ecosystem services.

IDF Director General Laurence Rycken reinforced the message of sustainability, highlighting the importance of dairy in sustainable food systems. 

She emphasized that “dairy is part of the solution for a sustainable future,” noting the industry’s commitment to providing safe, nutritious, and sustainable food products globally.

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