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Richard-Toll sugarcane cultivation
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Sugarcane cultivation in Richard-Toll serves as the industrial cornerstone of northern Senegal, primarily operated by the Compagnie Sucrière Sénégalaise (CSS). Since the 1970s, the project has utilized the water resources of the Senegal River to irrigate over 12,000 hectares of land. The town of Richard-Toll, named after the French gardener Jean-Michel Claude Richard, developed into a major economic hub due to this industry. Production extends beyond sugar to include ethanol and electricity generated from bagasse, ensuring the complex's energy self-sufficiency. Thousands of seasonal workers shape the region's social fabric during the harvest season, while state-of-the-art irrigation systems guarantee efficiency within the semi-arid zone.
- Location: Senegal
- Nearby: Djoudj National Bird Park (64 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?
This area is a major industrial sugarcane cultivation zone in northern Senegal. The plantations supply the regional sugar industry and shape the economy of the Richard-Toll region.
Visiting
The sugarcane fields are clearly visible from public roads, but the industrial compounds are usually not open to visitors. Typically, you can view the plantations from the main roads along the Senegal River.
Where to view it
The best view over the vast sugarcane fields can be had from the N2 national road near Richard-Toll. Elevated spots on the riverbank offer a particularly good panorama of the cultivation area.
Local products
The region mainly produces raw sugar and molasses, which are available at local markets. Seasonally, fresh sugarcane juice is sold and is popular during the harvest period.
Active season
The main activity takes place during the dry season from November to May, when the sugarcane is cut and transported for processing. During this time, the fields and loading ramps are bustling with activity.
Nearby
A visit to the sugarcane fields can be combined with a trip to the nearby Richard-Toll town center. The Senegal River and the Djoudj National Park also offer opportunities for a combined exploration of the region.
Geography
Facts
- The Compagnie Sucrière Sénégalaise was established in 1970.
- Over 12,000 hectares of plantation are irrigated by the Senegal River.
- Annual sugar production exceeds 100,000 tons for the local market.
- Richard-Toll translates to 'Richard's Garden' (Wolof: Toll).
- The industrial complex generates its own electricity from biomass.
- Employs approximately 8,000 people directly and indirectly in the region.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Richard-Toll sugarcane cultivation (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can the fields be visited?
This is an active industrial area; visits by arrangement only.
What is the region known for?
The region is the center of sugarcane cultivation in Senegal.
Is it suitable for day trips?
Yes, in combination with the banks of the Senegal River.
Is there a visitor center?
No, there is no public visitor center.
When is the harvest time?
Harvesting usually takes place between November and May.
Richard-Toll sugarcane cultivation: where is it located?
Richard-Toll sugarcane cultivation is located in Senegal.
Richard-Toll sugarcane cultivation: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Richard-Toll sugarcane cultivation: why is it worth visiting?
Sugarcane cultivation in Richard-Toll serves as the industrial cornerstone of northern Senegal, primarily operated by the Compagnie Sucrière Sénégalaise (CSS).
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Senegal River Delta
The mouth of the Senegal River into the Atlantic Ocean.
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