Developpp.de - Training bakers in Dakar

Training bakers in Dakar

Averaging around 27 kilograms a year, per capita Senegalese bread consumption is considerably higher than in many other African countries. Often though the bakery products are not of a particularly good quality and the choice is limited. The bakeries employ mainly young unskilled assistants, many of whom are unable to read and write. These workers learn the job as they go along since no systematic training is available. Poor quality is pushing down demand for domestic products, with more and more Senegalese turning to imported, industrially produced bread which, in turn, lowers demand for flour.

The flour producer GDM set up a modern training centre in Dakar together with DEG and, within the space of two years, has taught some 375 young bakers how to handle flour, dough and ovens, resulting in an increase in productivity and quality, as well as in hygiene and safety standards. Since 2009, GDM has been running the training centre on its own, turning out some 250 qualified bakers a year. The company is thus helping to reduce the high level of youth unemployment and to raise economic efficiency in the bakery sector while ensuring continued demand for flour.

Further information (only in German)