Senegal relies on the halal economy to boost its SMEs

The Senegalese SME Forum, which was held in Dakar from February 18 to 20, marked a decisive turning point in the country’s commitment to the Halal economy. The Oumma.com team has specially moved to cover this major event and observe the growing economic dynamism of West Africa. With more than 10,000 participants from 30 countries, this forum illustrates Senegal’s ambition to become a key player in the world Halal market.

Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko inaugurated this major forum which brought together more than 600 exhibitors in a space of 6,000 m², demonstrating the commitment of the highest state authorities in the development of this strategic sector.

A highlight of the event, a panel devoted to halal industry, moderate by Mamadou Ndiaye, founder of Wasabih, brought together leading international experts: the ambassador Dato Zainal Izran Zahari of Malaysia in Senegal, Dénéba Diouf Director General Manager Halal Senegal, our Zouhair co-founder Amri, and Murat şükrü Soykan de Kosgeb Türkiye. A strong consensus has emerged on the need for Senegal to acquire a single certification government agency, on the Malaysian Jakim model, a global reference organization.

Turkish and Malaysian representatives have also announced the implementation of ambitious collaboration programs with Senegalese SMEs. “Our expertise is at the disposal of Senegal to develop its halal industry,” said Malaysia ambassador, while the Turkish representative spoke of “strategic partnerships” to come. Mr. Dénéba Diouf, said the crucial importance of certification to access international markets.

The challenges remain numerous, in particular in terms of companies training and access to funding. However, the innovative solutions presented at the forum, particularly in Islamic finance, open promising prospects for Senegalese SMEs.

With more than 2,000 B2B meetings organized via a Business Matching Apssaya platform recognized internationally, this forum demonstrates the ability of Senegal to position itself as a regional hub of the Halal economy.