Former Minister Mabouba Diagne embarks on new venture in Guinea's livestock sector
Mabouba Diagne, former Minister of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty, and Livestock in Senegal, is now involved in a project to modernize cattle farming in Guinea. His role focuses on structuring the financing for the import of an initial 2,500 Brazilian cattle as part of an ambitious genetic improvement program. Diagne met with Alpha Bacar Barry, Guinea's Minister of Livestock, along with two Brazilian exporters and the Brazilian Ambassador to Guinea, Antonio Carlos de Salles Menezes, to discuss cooperation modalities. The project is part of Guinea's National Bovine Genetic Improvement Program 2026-2035, which aims to introduce 5,000 improved Brazilian cattle to enhance national herd performance for meat and milk production. Diagne's mission involves securing financing through mechanisms like letters of credit and convincing Brazilian partners to accept these terms. He also emphasizes the need for a complementary animal feed policy, advocating for local production of corn, sorghum, and other crops. Guinean authorities view this initiative as foundational for a more productive livestock sector, requiring investments in animal feed, veterinary health, financing, training, and processing infrastructure. The choice of Brazilian cattle is based on their adaptability to high temperatures and the technical support provided by Brazilian partners. Diagne's involvement leverages his prior experience with similar projects in Senegal, including the introduction of improved Brazilian cattle.
