Senegal’s Ambassador General Cheikh Wade completed a successful three-day official visit to Wales, strengthening bilateral relations across multiple sectors.
Agriculture
Ambassador Wade and his delegation visited two Welsh farms to learn about regenerative farming practices and modern livestock management. At Cwm Risca, they toured Jacob Anthony’s 700-acre Red Meat Focus Farm, while at Ty Tanglwyst Dairy Farm, managed by Rhys Lougher, they studied Pedigree Holstein dairy operations and modern forage systems. These visits aimed to transfer knowledge between Welsh and Senegalese agricultural sectors, particularly in livestock management and sustainable farming. Huge appreciation to Welsh Farming Connect and Helen Minnice-Smith of the Welsh Government for arranging these fact-finding tours.
Academic Partnerships
At Cardiff University, the Ambassador met with Professors Ambreena Manji Law Professor and Cardiff’s Dean of International (Africa) and David Clark, Head of the School of Modern Languages to discuss student exchanges and research collaborations.
Community Engagement
General Cheikh Wade became the first Ambassador to engage directly with Wales’s Senegalese community. Speaking to the diaspora, he outlined four core principles: respecting Welsh laws and customs, prioritising children’s upbringing and education, fostering community solidarity, and preserving Senegalese heritage. He reaffirmed the embassy’s continued commitment to delivering essential services including passport applications and birth registrations.
Diplomatic Relations
The visit concluded with a courtesy call at Cardiff’s Mansion House to meet with Lord Mayor Adrian Robson and the Lord Mayoress. Ambassador Wade presented a bronze statue of an African queen as a diplomatic gift, symbolising the cultural connection between both nations.
The visit successfully advanced Senegal-Wales relations in agriculture, education, community support, and diplomacy, laying a foundation for future collaboration.
