Ouagadougou: The Food Products Operating Company (SODEPAL-SA) has inaugurated an extension to its production unit, a project with a total investment of 605,538,948 FCFA. This new facility, unveiled under the chairmanship of Minister Delegate for Animal Resources, Amadou Dicko, boasts a daily processing capacity of 36 tons and aims for an annual turnover of 15 billion FCFA.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the expansion not only enhances production capacity but also promises significant employment opportunities. SODEPAL-SA plans to create 46 permanent jobs, 40 non-permanent jobs, and approximately 300 indirect jobs. The Director General, Yolande Zoundi, highlighted that the unit will introduce two brands of products for children, which include instant fortified infant flours and biscuits.

Ms. Zoundi also revealed plans for a larger agri-food complex, estimated to cost 2.5 billion FCFA. This initiative is expected to generate at least 40 new jobs over the next two years, diversify products, and expand markets across five countries in the sub-region. Additionally, the company is working towards ISO 22000 certification to ensure food safety standards.

Minister Delegate Amadou Dicko emphasized the infrastructure's role in achieving the objectives of the Agropastoral and Fisheries Offensive, focusing on strengthening cereal value chains. He urged economic operators and investors to emulate this example, highlighting Burkina Faso's untapped potential for growth and development.

Established in 1991, SODEPAL-SA focuses on processing local products like corn, millet, soybeans, and peanuts to address nutritional challenges, particularly for children. Minister Dicko expressed hopes for the unit's sustainable growth and contribution to national food security.