Senegal Accelerates Transport modernization and Youth Employment Initiatives Under Presidential Directive
In a landmark address, the President of the Republic underscored the critical need to modernize Senegal’s transport sector, emphasizing its role in achieving national advancement goals. The directive, issued following the conclusions of the States General of the sector, outlines a comprehensive roadmap for transforming land, air, and maritime transport while addressing youth employment and road safety challenges.
A Holistic Approach to Transport Modernization
Table of Contents
- A Holistic Approach to Transport Modernization
- Youth Employment and Professional Training
- Maritime and Port Infrastructure Development
- Strengthening state-Religion Relations
- Key initiatives at a Glance
- A Call to Action
- Strengthening Regional Cooperation
- Vision Senegal 2050: A Roadmap for Transformation
- Streamlining State Operations
- Ministerial Updates: Digital Strategy and Youth Olympic Games
- Key Highlights at a Glance
- looking Ahead
- Key Initiatives and Deadlines
- A Call for Collective Action
The President called on the Prime Minister and the Minister of Infrastructure and Land and Air transport to finalize the Government Action Plan for the modernization of land transport. This plan must account for legal, logistical, administrative, fiscal, and financial constraints to ensure the achievement of collective objectives.
One of the key measures includes the adoption of a special device to regulate moped circulation,aligning with the highway code and targeted measures for passenger transport in specific areas. Additionally, the Head of State urged the renewal of large aircraft and urban and interurban transport vehicles, emphasizing the sector’s role in promoting youth employability.
Youth Employment and Professional Training
the transport sector has been identified as a priority area for youth employment initiatives. The Government is tasked with developing professional training programs for drivers, mechanics, and other roles, while also securing informal jobs through better organization, adequate financing, and the gradual introduction of regular employment contracts with social security coverage.
The President also highlighted the need to reframe the “Xeyu ndaw ñi” Program, launched in 2021, which has faced notable shortcomings. By March 2025, the program is expected to evolve into a more efficient “Youth Employment” concept, integrating all targets and optimizing funding for job creation and entrepreneurship promotion.
Maritime and Port Infrastructure Development
Under “Vision Senegal 2050,” maritime and port infrastructure will receive special priority. The President instructed the Prime Minister and the Minister of Maritime and Port Infrastructure to finalize a new maritime and port policy by March 2025. This policy will reflect Senegal’s maritime vocation and address ongoing and future projects.
Reforms will focus on updating the governance framework for public and private ports, strengthening the National Agency for Maritime Affairs (ANAM), and modernizing ports and fishing quays nationwide.The President also emphasized the need to revise the partnership between the State and the Senegalese Consortium of Maritime Activities (COSAMA), ensuring national sovereignty over the Dakar shipyards and enhancing the Naval Repair Infrastructure Company (SIRN).
Strengthening state-Religion Relations
The President reiterated the importance of religious centers in fostering national unity and social stability. He announced plans to establish the General Delegation for Religious Affairs, aiming to elevate state-religion relations to a higher institutional level. Additionally, the Government is tasked with accelerating the modernization of religious cities and developing religious tourism.
Key initiatives at a Glance
| Initiative | Details | Deadline |
|————————————|—————————————————————————–|——————–|
| Land Transport Modernization | Finalize Government Action Plan, regulate mopeds, renew transport vehicles | ongoing |
| Youth employment Programs | Reframe “Xeyu ndaw ñi” Program, enhance professional training | March 2025 |
| Maritime and Port Policy | Develop new policy, modernize ports, strengthen ANAM | March 2025 |
| State-Religion relations | Establish General Delegation for Religious Affairs, develop religious tourism | Ongoing |
A Call to Action
The President’s directives reflect a bold vision for Senegal’s future, emphasizing the interconnectedness of transport modernization, youth employment, and national development. As the Government works to implement these measures,stakeholders are encouraged to engage actively in shaping a more prosperous and inclusive Senegal.
For more insights into Senegal’s development initiatives, explore how the World Bank is supporting urban transport modernization and the €320 million project to modernize Dakar’s transport network.
Senegal’s journey toward modernization is not just about infrastructure—it’s about creating opportunities,ensuring safety,and building a sustainable future for all.Senegal’s Prime Minister Outlines Key Initiatives for 2025, Including Pilgrimage Preparations and National Transformation Agenda
Senegal’s Prime Minister has unveiled a comprehensive plan for 2025, focusing on critical national and religious events, economic cooperation, and strategic reforms. Under his supervision, the government is taking “all necessary measures” to ensure the accomplished organization of the 2025 edition of the Pilgrimage to the Holy Places of Islam and Christianity. Additionally, the Minister of the Interior and public Security has been tasked with overseeing the preparations for two significant religious events: the magal “Kazu Rajab” on January 27, 2025, and the 145th edition of the Appeal of Seydina Limamou LAYE on January 30 and 31, 2025.
Strengthening Regional Cooperation
During his recent visit to the Islamic Republic of Mauritania from January 12 to 14,2025,the Prime Minister highlighted significant advancements in bilateral cooperation. Key areas of progress include the development of the GTA gas project, as well as collaborations in the fishing and land transport sectors. These initiatives underscore Senegal’s commitment to fostering regional partnerships and driving economic growth.
Vision Senegal 2050: A Roadmap for Transformation
The Prime Minister also addressed the outcomes of the operational implementation workshop for the National Transformation Agenda,dubbed “Vision Senegal 2050”. He urged government members to adhere strictly to the agreed timetable, emphasizing the validation of priority programs, projects, and reforms.“He insisted on structured management of change management, continuing training and also the strengthening and enhancement of Study and Planning Units,” the report stated.
To ensure the effective execution of the 2025 Roadmap under the 2025-2029 five-year plan, the Prime Minister called for meticulous monitoring of budgetary credits allocated to investment expenditure. he directed the minister of Finance and Budget, in collaboration with the Minister of Economy, Planning and Cooperation, to submit a list of programs and projects for the first quarter of 2025 for presidential approval.
Streamlining State Operations
In a bid to reduce the state’s operational costs, the Prime Minister introduced new modalities governing the approval of missions abroad for state agents. This move aligns with broader efforts to enhance efficiency and fiscal duty within the government.
Ministerial Updates: Digital Strategy and Youth Olympic Games
During the council meeting, the Minister of Dialog, Telecommunications and Digital Affairs presented Senegal’s new digital strategy, titled “the new Technological Deal”. This initiative aims to position Senegal as a leader in digital innovation and connectivity.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture provided an update on preparations for the Youth Olympic Games (YOG Dakar 2026). This global event is expected to showcase Senegal’s cultural richness and athletic talent on the international stage.
Key Highlights at a Glance
| Initiative | Details |
|—————————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Pilgrimage to Holy Places | Organized for Islam and Christianity in 2025 |
| Magal “Kazu Rajab” | Scheduled for January 27, 2025 |
| Appeal of Seydina Limamou LAYE | 145th edition on January 30-31, 2025 |
| GTA Gas Project | Enhanced cooperation with Mauritania |
| Vision Senegal 2050 | National Transformation Agenda |
| New Technological Deal | Senegal’s digital strategy |
| Youth Olympic Games | Preparations underway for YOG Dakar 2026 |
looking Ahead
As Senegal gears up for a transformative year in 2025, these initiatives reflect the government’s dedication to fostering economic growth, cultural preservation, and international collaboration. Stay tuned for more updates on these groundbreaking projects and their impact on the nation’s future.
What are your thoughts on Senegal’s aspiring plans for 2025? Share your insights and join the conversation below!
>National Transformation Agenda,the Prime Minister called for the establishment of a robust monitoring adn evaluation framework. This framework will track progress, identify bottlenecks, and ensure accountability across all sectors. The Prime Minister also emphasized the importance of stakeholder engagement, urging ministries to collaborate with civil society, the private sector, and international partners to achieve the aspiring goals set forth in Vision Senegal 2050.
Key Initiatives and Deadlines
The Prime Minister outlined several key initiatives with specific deadlines to ensure timely implementation:
| Initiative | Details | Deadline |
|————————————|—————————————————————————–|——————–|
| Pilgrimage Preparations | Organize the 2025 Pilgrimage to the Holy Places of Islam and Christianity | January 2025 |
| Religious Events | Oversee the Magal “Kazu Rajab” and the 145th edition of Seydina Limamou LAYE’s Appeal | January 2025 |
| Regional Cooperation | Advance GTA gas project and collaborations in fishing and land transport | Ongoing |
| Vision Senegal 2050 | Validate priority programs, projects, and reforms | March 2025 |
| Monitoring and Evaluation | Establish a framework for tracking progress and ensuring accountability | ongoing |
A Call for Collective Action
the Prime Minister’s announcements reflect a clear vision for Senegal’s future, emphasizing the importance of both immediate and long-term goals. By prioritizing religious events, regional cooperation, and the National Transformation agenda, the government aims to foster unity, economic growth, and sustainable development.
As Senegal moves forward,the Prime Minister called on all citizens to actively participate in these initiatives,underscoring that national progress is a collective effort. “The success of these programs depends on the commitment of every Senegalese citizen,” he stated. “Together, we can build a prosperous and inclusive future for our nation.”
For more details on Senegal’s development initiatives, explore how the World bank is supporting urban transport modernization and the €320 million project to modernize Dakar’s transport network.
Senegal’s journey toward modernization and transformation is a testament to the nation’s resilience and ambition. With a clear roadmap and collective effort, the country is poised to achieve its vision of a brighter future for all.
