Two training workshops, aimed at building the capacity of the leadership of the Palmarin Oyster Farmers’ Cooperative and the Saloum Delta Beekeepers’ Cooperative, were held on February 5 and 6 and February 7 and 8, respectively, in Palmarin and Toubacouta, in the Saloum Delta.
The Niominka Oyster Farmers’ Cooperative in Palmarin, which encompasses the municipalities of Palmarin, Fimela, and Joal and is composed primarily of women, has been working on the principles and values of a cooperative, democratic governance, and the responsibilities of the General Assembly and the Board of Directors. The discussions emphasized transparency, accountability, and the integrity of leaders.
In Toubacouta, the Saloum Delta Beekeepers’ Cooperative focused its work on the legal and behavioral aspects of governance and the suitability of the cooperative as a universal model. The role of the Supervisory Board was discussed, with particular emphasis on impartiality, confidentiality, and rigorous oversight.
Originally established by CRADESC and its partner, the Ford Foundation, these cooperatives were launched following an information and awareness-raising campaign, which was followed by founding general meetings. Today, they receive ongoing support through capacity-building workshops that strengthen their legal and organizational foundations and foster opportunities for strategic partnerships.
The beekeepers’ cooperative, which was initially limited to the municipalities of Diossong, Sokone, and Toubacouta, has gradually expanded to cover the entire Saloum Delta. Its members have decided to reach out to all beekeepers in the area to encourage them to join, strengthen the organization’s representativeness, and increase its economic and social impact.
Furthermore, these two important workshops serve as a call for collective action and solidarity, in line with the “Year of Employment and the Social and Solidarity Economy” proclaimed by the President of the Republic of Senegal, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, during his New Year’s address to the nation.
Cooperatives serve as a bridge between governing bodies and development partners, fostering sustainable initiatives that benefit local communities.
