Senegal launches new edible oil refinery
Senegal has launched a major US$110M vegetable oil refinery in Sendou, marking a significant step toward food self-sufficiency and reduced import dependence.
SENEGAL – President of Senegal, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, officially opened a new edible vegetable oil refinery at the port area of Sendou in the Rufisque district on 27 January 2026, marking a major investment in the country’s agri‑food processing capacity and a strategic step toward reducing reliance on imported edible oils.
The facility, developed and operated by Mavamar Industries SA, sits on a 23‑hectare site and represents a total investment of CFA60 billion (US$109.5M), according to company and local reports.
The new refinery has an initial daily processing capacity of 600 tons of vegetable oil from sources like peanuts, palm, and other oilseeds, potentially yielding 180,000 tons annually under full operation.
This aligns with the government’s vision for economic sovereignty, transforming crude oils into finished products for national and sub-regional markets while curbing Senegal’s hefty import bill.
Between 2020 and 2024, the country imported an average of 229,059 tons of oils and fats per year, at a cost of nearly CFA124 billion (US$225.8M).
The project arrives amid challenges in the 2025/2026 peanut campaign, where production is projected to exceed 900,000 tons, but processing capacity lags.
The government directed SONACOS, the state oil processor, to raise its peanut purchase target to 450,000 tons from 250,000, though only 62,000 tons were purchased in the first two months at a minimum price of CFA 305 (US$0.55) per kilogram.
Mavamar Managing Director, Souleymane Ndoye, announced plans to expand peanut crushing from year one, diversifying outlets and easing market pressures, despite farmer scepticism over potential price drops and congestion.
The Sendou project is being watched regionally as West African countries seek to expand processing capacity to meet growing domestic consumption and to capture more value from agricultural commodities.
While the refinery’s commissioning is a significant milestone, experts note that achieving full operational throughput and sustained local sourcing will depend on stable feedstock supplies, competitive pricing, and effective integration with port and inland logistics.
This initiative enhances local agribusiness, creates jobs, and supports sustainable farming in West Africa.
By substituting imports, it promises economic gains and enhanced food security for Senegal’s growing population.
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