🇸🇳SenegalWest Africa
Dakar peanut hay prices surge, raising concerns for livestock farmers ahead of Tabaski
via SeneNews3 min read
In Dakar, the price of a bag of peanut hay, known as "Ngooñ" in Wolof, has sharply increased from 4,000 to 9,000 FCfa in less than a month. This surge is alarming livestock farmers, who are already struggling with a lack of alternatives in the capital. The general rise in livestock feed prices ahead of Tabaski is expected to lead to an increase in sheep prices this year. Farmers like Pape Malé Diagne emphasize that hay is essential for ruminants. Resellers, including Sidi Bara Ba and Khadim Ba, who are among the largest livestock feed sellers in Keur Mbaye Fall, express their discomfort with the situation, stating they do not understand the sudden and unjustified price hike. Sidi Bara Ba notes that an increase is usually observed closer to the rainy season, when hay from the previous peanut harvest helps bridge the lean period in the interior of the country. However, he believes the current timing is abnormal and suggests bad faith is at play. Ousmane Dramé, another experienced reseller, also points out the poor quality of the product despite its high price. Sidi Bara Ba is even considering stopping the sale of peanut hay after Tabaski due to the unfair pricing and underfilled bags. Some customers are now seeking alternative feed options as the economic viability of traditional feed becomes questionable.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by SeneNews.
The rising price of peanut hay in Senegal is part of a broader issue related to land management. Ismaïla Sow, president of the National Council of the House of Breeders, states that the reduction of agricultural land, caused by sales and speculation, limits fodder production. This leads to scarcity, even as demand increases with livestock growth, creating a lasting imbalance in the livestock sector. Sow highlights the inadequacy of current policies that do not sufficiently consider fodder cultivation and livestock food security. He calls for a comprehensive approach that includes preserving natural resources and better organization of sector stakeholders. He also criticizes policies he deems disconnected from local realities, advocating for solutions adapted to the Senegalese context. Sow recommends land policy reform and enhanced dialogue with rural stakeholders. Ahead of Tabaski, he warns of a probable increase in sheep prices, attributing it to the high cost of animal feed, transport expenses, and sellers' cautious strategies. He believes this situation requires anticipation to prevent further market tensions.
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