When people ask me what the ideal length of a trip or stay in a new place is, I always say: “long enough to attend at least two farmers markets.” A single visit to a farmers market is already worthwhile, but being able to reconnect with fascinating people while making new connections reminds me how lucky I am to spend enough time in so many destinations to feel a sense of belonging, even though, at the end of the day, I am just a guest.
In April 2026, I had the opportunity to experience another edition of the Dakar Farmers Market, which was this time held at the Complexe Sportif GMBF in Ouakam. I not only had the pleasure of catching up with people I met in March and telling them how much I appreciated their products, but also of meeting other vendors and discovering new gems. Here, I share the encounters and finds from my second visit to the market.
Les Secrets de Maam
Founded in 2020 by Mbery Faye, Les Secrets de Maam is a brand that transforms local resources into infusions, powders, and syrups, with a mission to showcase rural women’s expertise, celebrate Senegalese heritage, and promote well-being. Made by a dedicated, mostly women-led team, the products are crafted from raw materials sourced through environmentally respectful farming practices and combine tradition and innovation.
The find: Fraîcheur de Dakar is a revitalizing blend of eucalyptus, mint, and thyme that freshens the breath, clears the airways, relieves tension, and soothes digestive discomfort. Best enjoyed hot or warm before bedtime, this infusion, suitable for the whole family, offers a refreshing sense of well-being while promoting relaxation and deep, restorative sleep.
SenPote
SenPote offers 100% natural fruit compotes and purées free from added sugar, preservatives, and colorants, and made with local, seasonal fruits. The brand’s founders, Bineta and Badara, are committed to offering a healthy alternative to industrial products while supporting local development. The pouches are easy to take on the go and suitable for babies from 6 months onward, as well as adults looking for a light, fruity, and energizing snack.
The find: At the April 2026 farmers market, SenPote offered six flavors, including banana ditakh, mango banana, apple papaya, strawberry banana, apple mango passion fruit, and banana bouye. I was told that the clear favorite of the day was apple mango passion fruit!
Nutrigora
Nutrigora is an initiative of the NGO Agora that promotes healthy, balanced, and accessible nutrition while working towards food security. Based in Saint-Louis, the grain processing facility celebrates the expertise of Senegalese women through a range of grains and fortified flours made with millet, rice, sweet potato, and other local ingredients. 100% natural, affordable, and easy to prepare, the products are also integrated into community initiatives aimed, among other things, at strengthening young people’s economic autonomy and addressing the nutritional needs of vulnerable populations, particularly children and pregnant women in rural areas.
The find: Mbouraké au thiéré is a snack or dessert made with thiéré, a Senegalese millet couscous, mixed with peanut butter and sugar. 100% natural and gluten-free, it can be enjoyed on its own or with yogurt or ice cream. It can also be used as a crumble for baked desserts.
Ekolakou AfrikAyiti
Ekolakou AfrikAyiti is an agroecological initiative based in Tene Toubab that promotes Afro-Caribbean farming in Senegal. Their products blend African and Haitian flavors and include artisanal jams and preserves, peanut butters, natural dried herbal teas, and seasonal fruits and vegetables. The farm also offers customizable baskets and gift sets that support community initiatives while promoting local production.
The find: Similar to Haitian epis, often considered the backbone of Haitian cuisine, nokoss is an essential Senegalese spice blend used as the base for countless savory dishes, including fish, meat, rice, pasta, vegetables, sauces, and more. This ready-to-use version contains garlic, leek, parsley, onion, broadleaf thyme, a hint of green pepper, and olive oil.
If you’re in Dakar, be sure to check out the Dakar Farmers Market and connect with these inspiring individuals and many others!
Dakar Farmers Market
Instagram: @dkfarmersmarket
Les Secrets de Maam
Instagram: @secretsdemaam
SenPote
Instagram: @senpote_
Nutrigora
Instagram: @nutrigora
Ekolakou AfrikAyiti
Instagram: @ekolakou_afrikayiti
Market Hauls and Local Noms 