In Dakar, a forum places women entrepreneurs at the heart of food sovereignty
On September 21 and 22, FESA 2026 will bring together businesses, cooperatives, investors, and institutions at CICES, with a strong focus on women and youth from West Africa.
The Entrepreneurship and Food Sovereignty Forum will hold its inaugural edition on September 21 and 22 at CICES in Dakar. Organized by the African Platform for the Empowerment of Women and Girls, the event aims to bring together businesses, cooperatives, investors, and institutions around projects related to food and the local economy.
The organizers have announced invited delegations from 15 West African countries, including Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Nigeria, Togo, and Senegal. More than 2,000 participants are expected, according to the official website, with thirteen themes ranging from financing to agribusiness, as well as digital technology, climate, and women’s leadership.
The first day will feature an opening ceremony, an institutional panel, and thematic workshops. On September 22, the program includes mentoring sessions, meetings between project leaders and partners, followed by a signing session aimed at establishing a regional roadmap.
The role of women entrepreneurs is a central theme of the forum. The PAAF claims to have already supported over 21,000 rural women in structuring cooperatives and developing their activities in three West African countries. In Dakar, the organization aims to focus on access to financing, formalization, and connecting with broader markets.
ExpoDakar also lists FESA 2026 among the professional events in September at CICES. The agenda confirms the dates of September 21 and 22 and categorizes the event under business and entrepreneurship.
The pass for Senegalese participants is set at 10,000 FCFA for the two days. For international attendees, the fee is 13,120 FCFA, which includes access to plenary sessions, workshops, the exhibition area, and a name badge.
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