Set up in 2024 by The Ivory Foundation at the Village Pilote association, the seed production greenhouse has quickly proven its worth at this shelter for young people living on the streets, located near Lake Rose on the outskirts of Dakar in Senegal. Managed by Blaise, the centre’s gardener, it forms an integral part of the vocational activities offered to the young people in care, encouraging their active participation in the life of the centre.
The produce from the greenhouse serves a dual purpose: some of the vegetables supply the canteen, thereby contributing to the site’s food self-sufficiency, whilst the rest is dedicated to seed production. In a context particularly marked this year by water shortages, the greenhouse offers a more favourable environment for vegetable growing. Cabbages, in particular, have been planted there to make use of partially shaded areas, which are better suited to these difficult conditions. At the same time, several crops have been established for seed production, including peppers, basil, aubergines and lettuces, mostly grown from second-generation seeds, with a view to ensuring the long-term sustainability of resources.
To limit high temperatures under cover, Blaise has also implemented a simple and effective solution: two 20-metre-long strips of opaque fabric have been installed at the top to provide partial shade and improve growing conditions.
