Sadio Mané is investing $19.5M (11.7 billion CFA) in the SM10 AGRO project in his hometown of Bambali, with the foundation stone being laid on September 19, 2026.
Scheduled for completion in 18 months, the agricultural initiative aims to:
1. Create 1,000+ direct jobs
2. Give local farmers more opportunities
3. Process mangoes for export
4. Produce mango purée, butter and dried mango
5. Include a training centre and four processing facilities
Speaking in a press conference ahead of the laying of the foundation stone on Saturday, Mane said: “The Sedhiou region loses 30 to 40 per cent of the mangoes it grows, because of failures to store and process them properly.
“I want the wealth of our soil to remain here with us in Senegal. This initiative will employ 1,000 people from the outset.
“Processing plants will be set up at Bambali, and one will specialise in making mango butter. There will also be a 500-hectare mango plantation, and an agricultural college will be established.
“I want the young people and women of my region to have real opportunities for education. Transport and delivery services for SM10 Agro will indirectly create extra jobs as well.”