Senegal integrates the social and solidarity economy into its national framework for professional integration
At the African Social and Solidarity Economy Forum (FORA'ESS), the ILO highlights the results of its support for cooperatives and backs a reform that opens new prospects for decent work for young people.
14 July 2026
DAKAR (ILO News) – Senegal has reached a new milestone by integrating cooperatives, mutuals, and other social and solidarity economy (SSE) entities into its national framework for youth professional integration. This development was formalized during the African Social and Solidarity Economy Forum (FORA'ESS), held in Dakar from July 7 to 9, with the launch of the "Social and Solidarity Economy" component of the National State-Employer Agreement (CNEE).
This new component will enable SSE organizations to take on qualified young people entering the workforce, with the State covering part of their remuneration during this period. The aim is to foster young people's access to decent jobs while strengthening the capacity of SSE organizations.
The launch was co-chaired by Idrissa Samb, Minister of Employment and Technical and Vocational Training, and Alioune Badara Dione, Minister of Microfinance and the Social and Solidarity Economy. Also in attendance were Samira Daoud, Director of the ILO Office in Dakar, as well as representatives from cooperatives, social partners, and financial partners—specifically the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).
The signing of the framework agreement between the two ministries, followed by the initial partnership agreements with SSE entities, marks a significant milestone in recognizing the role of cooperatives and other social and solidarity economy organizations as key players in national employment policy.
The ILO supports cooperative development
This progress builds on the ILO’s work to strengthen cooperative capacities and foster their development. With support from the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the Organization assists SSE entities in improving their governance, management, and economic activities so they can create more decent jobs.
Five ILO-supported cooperatives were showcased at FORA’ESS. Representing sectors as diverse as beekeeping, fish processing, agri-food, leather, and textiles, they illustrate the potential of the social and solidarity economy to generate income, leverage local expertise, and strengthen community resilience.
"Thanks to the support of the International Labour Organization (ILO)—made possible by funding from the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS)—our union is now structured and recognized. We have benefited from technical training on product processing, as well as training in cooperative management and governance, which have enabled us to professionalize our practices and earn the trust of our partners," explains Cheikh Seck, President of the Trans-Horti-Avi Union of the Niayes.
A driver for youth employment
By integrating social and solidarity economy entities into the national professional integration framework, Senegal is expanding opportunities for young people while strengthening the role of cooperatives in economic and social development.
The ILO’s participation in FORA’ESS demonstrates its commitment to working alongside public authorities and partners to promote a more inclusive economy, support social and solidarity economy enterprises, and foster the creation of decent jobs.
