Senegal’s Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, issued a directive on Thursday, urging government ministers to significantly accelerate the completion and operationalization of public infrastructure projects currently underway nationwide.

During an inter-ministerial council meeting in Dakar, specifically focused on infrastructure development, the head of government emphasized the critical need to swiftly remove administrative, financial, and technical impediments that are hindering numerous strategic initiatives.

Addressing maritime and port infrastructure, Prime Minister Sonko called upon the Minister of Fisheries and Maritime Economy to implement all necessary measures to ensure their rapid and efficient utilization, particularly through robust public-private partnerships.

Key infrastructure projects under scrutiny include the Foundiougne-Ndakhonga port, the Ndangane Sambou fishing quay, the developed Soumbédioune landing point, and the processing facilities in Rufisque. Furthermore, the dredgers operated by the National Agency for Maritime Affairs, stationed in the Kaolack and Fatick regions, were also highlighted as areas requiring expedited action.

The government has identified a staggering 62 infrastructure projects currently stalled. These critical endeavors encompass a wide range, from the Université du Sine-Saloum El Hadj Ibrahima Niass and open digital spaces to regional airports in Saint-Louis, Matam, and Kolda. Also included are the Ndayane port’s container terminal, cold storage facilities, and the poignant “Le Joola” boat memorial.

The vital reconstruction of the Aristide-Le-Dantec hospital in Dakar also stands among the projects affected by these persistent delays.

To address this widespread stagnation, the Prime Minister announced the establishment of a dedicated committee. This body will be tasked with inventorying all infrastructure and closely monitoring the inter-ministerial council’s decisions, ultimately implementing the financial, administrative, and legal actions required to revitalize and complete these crucial projects.

Ousmane Sonko affirmed the government’s commitment to finalizing these infrastructure developments “while adhering to all requisite standards of quality and cost efficiency.”

The head of government further stressed the importance of integrating water, electricity, and telecommunications networks into the foundational planning of all public projects. He instructed ministers to ensure robust attention to technical equipment, operational models, and the long-term sustainable maintenance of these infrastructures.

Regarding the ongoing construction of youth and citizenship centers across various locations, including Tivaouane, Mbour, Linguère, Ranérou, Bambey, Diourbel, Kaolack, and Tambacounda, the Prime Minister set a firm deadline of November 30, 2026, for their full outfitting and operational launch.

The inter-ministerial council also delved into the progress of “Naatangué” village farms and several agropoles currently under development in Mpal, Adéane, Dioulacolon, and Mbellacadiao.

Prime Minister Sonko directed the relevant ministries to collaborate with private partners in establishing sustainable operational models. The goal is to guarantee both the profitability and the significant social utility of these vital agro-industrial infrastructures.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister outlined various strategies for maximizing the value of public infrastructure. These options include leasing, long-term concessions, emphyteutic leases, and other innovative public-private partnership structures designed to attract fresh investments.

The governmental assembly also discussed the future of national stadiums, general sports infrastructure, national parks, natural reserves, and the real estate assets belonging to Senegalese diplomatic missions abroad.

Finally, the head of government instructed relevant public entities to propose mechanisms for the recycling and valorization of state-owned real estate and land assets, including those held by the armed forces. The objective is to optimize their utilization for the benefit of national interests.