The war in Ukraine has unexpected repercussions on the milling sector in West Africa. Major mills, particularly those located in Dakar and Abidjan, are facing rising wheat prices, a crucial issue for flour production. According to a report from RFI, these mills must adapt their strategies to maintain their economic viability.

“There are periods when we can buy wheat at a low price and maintain a consistent flour price to ensure a production margin,” explains Mohamed Koné, technical director of a major mill in Abidjan. This strategy aims to ensure a stable supply of flour while coping with fluctuations in the international market.

The major mills in West Africa, which play an essential role in regional food security, are often criticized for their massive flour imports. However, they defend this approach by emphasizing that it is necessary to meet growing demand. Indeed, countries like Côte d'Ivoire and Senegal import nearly 60% of their total wheat consumption.

The Guinean group Sonoco is also entering this dynamic by building a new major mill in Sierra Leone. This project reflects a desire to improve food self-sufficiency in the region. However, it is still far from the desired level: “We are very far from the desired level,” acknowledges Koné.

The current situation highlights the persistent challenges faced by West African countries. Despite notable economic growth in recent years, as indicated by a previous report from JOURNAL.AFRICA on the impressive growth of UEMOA countries, the agri-food sector remains fragile and dependent on imports.

Therefore, major milling companies must navigate a complex environment where raw material costs fluctuate and international competition intensifies. The future of these businesses may depend on their ability to innovate and adapt to the new market realities.