Thierno Agne’s journey from law student to one of Senegal’s largest strawberry farmers is an inspiring testament to the power of passion and perseverance. In a country where farming is often viewed as a low-status occupation for the poor and uneducated, Agne has redefined what it means to be a farmer. His success in growing strawberries, a crop once thought unsuitable for Senegal’s climate, is not only reshaping the agricultural landscape but also changing the perceptions of young people toward farming.
Agne’s story began in the small town of Tambacounda, where he grew up surrounded by nature, tending to his father’s mango trees. Although he had a strong connection to agriculture, his dreams were focused on law. After moving to the capital, Dakar, to study at university, he quickly realized that there were too many law graduates and not enough job opportunities. This disillusionment, coupled with a pivotal moment when he learned about his grandfather’s successful history in farming, prompted Agne to switch fields. He chose to study agriculture, a decision that shocked his family but set him on a path to success.
Initially, Agne’s plan to grow strawberries was met with skepticism. Many believed the hot, humid climate of Senegal was too harsh for strawberries, which typically thrive in cooler environments. But Agne was undeterred. He started small, growing a few strawberries on his balcony in Dakar, and when they thrived, he rented a small plot of land to begin commercial farming. By 2015, he harvested his first successful crop, earning nearly $6,000. His business quickly scaled, and by his second year, his profits doubled.
However, success did not come without setbacks. Agne faced challenges, including the spoilage of his crop after expanding his farm too quickly. But these early failures taught him valuable lessons in patience and perseverance. By 2023, he had expanded to 12 acres of land, producing 50 tons of strawberries annually. His goal is to acquire even more land in the coming years, cementing his place among the few large-scale agricultural producers in Senegal.
Beyond his success as a farmer, Agne is dedicated to changing the way people, especially young people, perceive farming. He wants to show that agriculture can be a respectable and lucrative career. Through his work, Agne has mentored countless young people, some of whom have gone on to start their own strawberry farms. He has also helped process the berries into juice, creating additional income opportunities. Today, his farm is home to a growing community of strawberry farmers, collectively producing 180 tons of strawberries each year.
Agne’s mission is to make strawberries more accessible to the Senegalese people. While the fruit is now more affordable in grocery stores, it remains a luxury for many, with prices still high at $9 to $11 per kilogram. He hopes that as local production grows, the price will decrease, making strawberries a staple in Senegalese homes rather than a rare treat.
Through his work, Agne has not only created jobs and increased local food production but also proven that farming can be an innovative, respectable, and rewarding career. His journey challenges long-held perceptions about agriculture in Senegal and paves the way for future generations to embrace farming as a viable and attractive profession.
