By 2050, more than half of Africa's population will be under 25. As perpetual optimists, we firmly believe that this reality represents a major asset for the future. However, it is imperative to anticipate the growing demand for jobs and essential services such as education, healthcare, training, housing, and social protection.

Following our forward-looking seminar for the next ten years, we were pleased to note that the African Union has also adopted its ten-year strategic plan for the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE). This plan aims to promote the SSE as an economic alternative capable not only of generating jobs but also of improving the quality of life in the most vulnerable regions.

At the same time, Senegal continues to make progress with its policy of incentivizing and supporting SSE entrepreneurs and SMEs, facilitating their access to public procurement. This support strengthens the sector's dynamism at the national level and paves the way for a more inclusive and sustainable economic model, in line with the ambitions of the African Union's strategic plan.

Whether by coincidence or not, these initiatives represent a source of inspiration for us and a tremendous opportunity to seize in order to further strengthen the social and solidarity economy (SSE) in Africa.

Our objective is clear: to actively contribute to sustainable development, respect for human rights, and the reduction of inequality and poverty. This is why we established the Incub’ESS, to support SSE entrepreneurs from the initial idea to fundraising; the CommunityLab, to help young people and Civil Society Organizations take action; and the Campus, to amplify impact through training and capacity building for organizations and managers.

In ten years, we have had diverse experiences that confirm that the SSE has definitively taken off.

We have encountered resistance born of ignorance. We've often been told, "Social impact and business don't mix; it's one or the other." Yet, the entrepreneurs we support prove every day that it's possible to reconcile social impact and profitability.

There's a lack of understanding of the economic model. Many saw us as a non-profit organization, incapable of developing independently of subsidies, but it is indeed possible to run a social enterprise.

Today, the social and solidarity economy (SSE) is being embraced through awareness. Thousands of young people are committing to this path, building meaningful and impactful projects.

All this to say that the SSE has a bright future in Senegal. So, young people, invest, create, innovate, transform, and above all, make an impact for the well-being of everyone.

Mamba Souare: Social Entrepreneur, Founder of ComDev Africa