The mismatch between available groundnut and processing capacity forces Gambian farmers to sell most of their raw, shelled groundnut to international corporations at dumping prices. As most of the value chain is externalized, profit margins of local farmers are low.

Our mission is to fight this dynamic on a regional level. Therefore we have decided to launch a groundnut processing factory on our Mixed Farming Center. As of 2024 we de-shell, roast and grind groundnuts to groundnuts butter. The major processing steps are done with the help of imported machinery. Intermediary processing  stages like blanching and the removal of spoiled kernel and stones are still done by hand.

While the operation of the machines is exclusively handled by our permanent staff, the handpicking of spoiled groundnuts and stones, as well as blanching the kernel is predominantly done by contract workers from neighbouring villages. We strive not only to support farmers with processing their goods, but to create jobs along the way.

Our processing offer to farmers consists of two different options:

Farmers have the option of either having their peanuts processed  by us for a fair price, or they can sell the raw peanut to us directly. Our own groundnut butter is then sold on local markets as well as distributed to markets, hotels and restaurant in The Gambia’s capital city, Banjul.

It goes without saying that 100% of the gained profits remain in The Gambia and are reinvested into growing our agricultural education programs and supporting The Salikenni Nursery school.