In Senegal, women, who are key players in the economy through tontines, economic interest groups (EIGs) and cooperatives, are often held back by limited access to information, training and financing.

Based on this observation, the National Network of Working Women of Senegal (RENAFETS) is holding a training workshop on the social and solidarity economy (SSE) for its members from October 1 to 3, 2025, in Dakar. The objective is to strengthen their capacities in order to develop sustainable and inclusive collective initiatives.

Recognized by the International Labor Organization (ILO) as a lever for decent work and equitable development, the SSE brings together cooperatives, associations, mutual societies and social enterprises that place people at the center of economic activity.

With this workshop, RENAFETS, which brings together women from the formal and informal sectors, civil society, and trade unions, aims to take a step forward. Participants worked on understanding the concepts of the SSE, formulating collective projects, and creating a national cooperative. A recommendations document will also be produced.

In her speech, RENAFETS President Fatou Binetou Yafa recalled that the SSE is deeply rooted in the culture of Senegalese women, citing tontines as a historical model of financial empowerment.

She also noted the importance of the ministry dedicated to microfinance and the social and solidarity economy, proof of the State's growing interest in this sector.

RENAFETS now intends to make the ESS a major tool for the economic independence of women and their full participation in the development of Senegal.