PFID/NP Senegal
Introduction
In 2004 PFID/NP joined with ASNAPP in Senegal. Since that time our efforts have centered around hibiscus, kinkeliba, and neem as strategic crops for sustainable economic development. The second year of our participation in the program saw great improvements in the quantity and quality of products being produced for local and international markets.
Hibiscus
Our entrance into Senegal coincided with the country's first year production of Hibiscus. During the initial year the program worked with 700 farmers, primarily women, who produced a total of 3 tons of product. Quality analysis found that approximately 50% of the samples were contaminated with sand and much of the final product was of a medium red or pink color rather than the dark red color preferred by consumers. After this first year of production, new harvest, and post-harvest handling as well as processing practices were introduced to the farmers. Among the improved practices was the introduction of raised beds to minimize contamination from soil and other materials. In addition a large amount of community outreach was performed to expand the reach of the program to impact greater numbers.
By year two, the program was impact was expanded to 4000 farmers. The years net production of hibiscus was increased to 700 tons. The harvesting and processing improvements which had been implemented succeeded in producing 90% with the desired color and low levels of sand contamination.
In the comming season PFID/NP will be working to bring Sengalese hibiscus into the US markets to generate higher profits for the producers and growers while continuing to improve the quality and volume of production in-country.
Development of Quality Control Programs in Senegal
Last year PFID/NP purchased equipment for the establishment the quality control program in Senegal and provided QA/QC analysis training. Next year it will be possible to carry out the qualtiy control evaluation in Senegal rather than in the US and will provide greater long term sustainability to the programs we are implementing.
Organic Certification
We are currently working towards organic certification for many hibiscus growers in Senegal. PFID/NP will be providing the financial support for the first years certification.
Hibiscus being transported from the field after harvest..