SENEGAL GOVERNMENT

Dakar, May 21 — The Prime Minister has called on government ministers to prioritize the completion and operationalization of ongoing infrastructure projects across their respective departments. Speaking at a special interministerial council meeting in Dakar, Ousmane Sonko outlined a series of critical directives aimed at breaking the deadlock on stalled initiatives.

Maritime and port infrastructure take center stage

Sonko emphasized the urgent need to accelerate maritime and port projects, particularly through strategic public-private partnerships. Among the key facilities requiring immediate attention are the Foundiougne-Ndakhonga Port, the Ndangane Sambou fishing quay in the central region, the upgraded Soumbédioune landing site, and the processing facilities in Rufisque (west). Additionally, he highlighted the critical role of dredging equipment managed by the National Maritime Affairs Agency in Kaolack and Fatick regions.

Over 60 stalled projects identified nationwide

The government has cataloged 62 delayed infrastructure projects, including the El Hâdj Ibrahima Niass University of Sine-Saloum, digital open spaces, regional airports in Saint-Louis, Matam (north), and Kolda (south), the Nadayane container terminal (west), cold storage facilities, and the Le Joola memorial. The stalled Aristide Le Dantec Hospital reconstruction in Dakar also featured prominently in the discussions.

Committee to oversee financial and administrative measures

A dedicated interministerial committee will be established to oversee the resumption and completion of these projects, ensuring strict adherence to quality and cost standards. Sonko underscored the importance of proper technical oversight, particularly regarding water, electricity, and telecommunications infrastructure for these projects.

‘’Ministers must now integrate robust technical planning into infrastructure projects — from adequate equipment and sustainable operational models to long-term maintenance strategies,’’ he stated.

Youth and citizen centers face 2026 deadline

Attention was also drawn to the ongoing construction of youth and citizen centers in Tivaouane, Mbour (west), Linguère, Ranérou (north), Bambey, Diourbel, Kaolack (center), and Tambacounda (east). The Prime Minister set a firm deadline of November 30, 2026 for their completion and operationalization, urging the ministries of Youth, Finance, Budget, and Local Authorities to finalize equipment and logistics.

Agricultural and agro-industrial initiatives gain momentum

The interministerial council reviewed progress on 11