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Richard Toll Sugar Factory
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Industrial site
The Compagnie Sucrière Sénégalaise (CSS) in Richard Toll is Senegal's largest private industrial complex and a critical driver of the national economy. Founded in 1970 by Jacques Mimran, the factory processes sugarcane grown on over 12,000 hectares of irrigated plantations along the Senegal River. With an annual production capacity of approximately 150,000 tons of sugar, the facility meets most of the country's domestic demand and produces ethanol from molasses. During the harvesting season, the company employs more than 8,000 workers, making it the largest private employer in the country. The plant operates its own power station using bagasse (sugarcane residue) to generate renewable energy for its operations. The site includes extensive irrigation infrastructure, refineries, and logistics hubs that support the agricultural transformation of the northern Sahel region.
- Location: Senegal
- Nearby: Djoudj National Bird Park (65 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 22 | 24 | 27 | 29 | 30 | 31 | 30 | 30 | 30 | 30 | 27 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 3 | 5 | 10 | 0 | 0 | 12 | 63 | 118 | 89 | 15 | 1 | 0 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Richard Toll Sugar Factory, operated by the Compagnie Sucrière Sénégalaise (CSS), is one of the largest sugarcane plantations and factories in Senegal. It is a central economic driver in northern Senegal, supplying sugar and derivatives to the country.
Visiting
The factory and plantation are generally not open to individual visitors, but the grounds can be seen from public roads. Occasionally organized group tours are offered that allow viewing of the production.
Where to view it
The best view of the sugar factory and the vast sugarcane fields is from the main N2 road that crosses Richard Toll. From the bridge over the Senegal River nearby, there is a wide view over the plantation areas.
Local products
The main product is cane sugar, processed in the factory and distributed nationwide. On local markets in Richard Toll, one can also find molasses, rum, and fresh sugarcane as seasonal products.
Active season
The sugarcane harvest takes place during the dry season from November to April, when the factory runs at full capacity. In the rainy season from May to October, harvesting is paused and fields are prepared for the next season.
Nearby
A visit to the Richard Toll sugar factory can be combined with a trip to the nearby Djoudj Bird Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city of Saint-Louis with its colonial architecture and Langue de Barbarie National Park is also recommended.
Geography
Facts
- The company was established in 1970 by businessman Jacques Mimran
- Operates over 12,000 hectares of irrigated sugarcane plantations
- Annual production capacity reaches 150,000 tons of refined sugar
- Largest private employer in Senegal with over 8,000 staff members
- Self-sufficient in energy through a bagasse-fired thermal power plant
- Significant producer of industrial ethanol derived from molasses
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Richard Toll Sugar Factory (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the CSS Richard Toll sugar factory?
It is the largest company for sugarcane cultivation and processing in the country.
Can one visit the sugar factory?
Visits are usually not possible for the general public, as it is a private facility.
Why is Richard Toll economically significant?
The factory is the main employer of the region and a central player in local agriculture.
What is the best travel time for this region?
The time outside the hottest months, i.e., between November and March, is handy.
What else is there to see besides the factory?
The riverside region of the Senegal River gives scenic views and opportunities for birdwatching.
Richard Toll Sugar Factory: where is it located?
Richard Toll Sugar Factory is located in Senegal.
Richard Toll Sugar Factory: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Richard Toll Sugar Factory: why is it worth visiting?
The Compagnie Sucrière Sénégalaise (CSS) in Richard Toll is Senegal's largest private industrial complex and a critical driver of the national economy.
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