Ucoopia at the 2026 Senegal Agroecology Days
An active contribution to the discussion on sustainable food systems
From April 21 to 23, 2026, Dakar hosted the 5th edition of the Senegal Agroecology Days (JAES), a major event bringing together public institutions, researchers, farmers’ organizations, technical and financial partners, civil society, and private-sector stakeholders to address the challenges of the agroecological transition. Under the theme “From Vision to Action: Institutionalizing Agroecology for Sustainable Food Systems,” this edition confirmed the growing role of agroecology in public policies and development strategies in Senegal.
In this context, Ucoopia actively participated in the various sessions of this strategic meeting, thereby demonstrating its ongoing commitment to more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable food systems in West Africa.
A notable presence right from the opening ceremony
The first day, devoted to the political, strategic, and multi-stakeholder framework, was attended by several national officials, including the ministers of agriculture and the environment, as well as numerous national and international partners. Discussions focused on the conditions for institutionalizing agroecology, the localization of agricultural policies, sustainable financing for the transition, and the promotion of local initiatives.
On this occasion, Ucoopia was represented among the organizations involved in efforts to transform food systems, actively participating in discussions and networking opportunities.
Ucoopia Takes Part in the Forum des Savoirs
The second highlight of JAES 2026 was the Knowledge Forum, a space for dialogue between science, innovation, real-world experiences, and public policy.
Ucoopia contributed by facilitating and participating in two strategic forums:
1. Sustainable financing for agroecology
Ucoopia, represented by Simon Damien Ntab, co-facilitated the forum titled “Rethinking Financing Mechanisms for Agroecology to Make Them Sustainable, Inclusive, and Truly Localized.” The discussions highlighted the need to develop financial mechanisms better suited to the realities of producers, local communities, and agricultural SMEs, while promoting the inclusion of young people and women.
2. The One Health Approach and Food Governance
Ucoopia also participated in the forum titled “What tools and indicators can local decision-makers and stakeholders use to integrate One Health into food system governance?” With the participation of Dr. Fatou Diouf, Simon Ntab, and Constant, a member of the Ucoopia Benin team, this session explored the close links between sustainable agriculture, human health, animal health, and environmental protection.
The discussions highlighted the importance of integrated approaches to addressing current health, climate, and food challenges.
A regional dynamic driven by innovation and cooperation
Ucoopia’s participation in JAES 2026 demonstrates its commitment to actively contributing to the ongoing transformations in the subregion by promoting:
- social and entrepreneurial innovation
- cooperation between public and private sector stakeholders
- regional resilience
- the ecological transition of food systems
- the emergence of high-impact local solutions
Toward New Synergies
Beyond the panels and forums, JAES 2026 provided a unique opportunity for networking, sharing experiences, and building lasting partnerships.
Ucoopia is delighted to have participated in this year’s event and reaffirms its commitment to working alongside stakeholders in Senegal and the region to build fairer, more sustainable, and more resilient food systems.