Senegalese markets face major challenges as Sonko unveils modernization blueprint

Dakar — The state of Senegal’s public markets has reached a critical juncture, according to Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, who presented a sobering assessment of the country’s commercial infrastructure during the latest cabinet meeting. The assessment highlighted structural and operational deficiencies that have persisted for decades, with most market facilities dating back to the 1970s.

Addressing the government, Sonko revealed alarming figures: between 2013 and 2024, 53 markets across Senegal experienced at least one fire incident, underscoring the severe safety risks in the sector. His diagnosis extended beyond governance failures, exposing critical gaps in technical standards, infrastructure integrity, organizational capacity, environmental sustainability, and public health.

A bold modernization agenda for Senegal’s markets

The Prime Minister emphasized the urgency of action, outlining a sweeping Plan for Market Modernization and Management (PROMOGEM). This initiative, anchored in a 2025–2029 strategic development framework, aims to restructure all 528 existing markets and introduce 67 new modernized facilities nationwide.

The first phase of the plan centers on pilot projects in high-risk zones, with Sonko calling for immediate interventions to address structural vulnerabilities. His proposals include a 47.5 billion FCFA budget allocation—part of the Public Investment Plan (PIP)—to finance construction, renovations, and safety upgrades over the next four years.

Reforms to strengthen market governance

To ensure long-term sustainability, the government plans to transform the market management framework into an autonomous administrative and financial entity. This entity will be tasked with improving operational efficiency, securing innovative funding, and enforcing stricter compliance standards. Key partners—including the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the Ministry of Finance and Budget, and the Ministry of Urban Planning—are collaborating to implement the reform.

The Prime Minister also urged local authorities and private stakeholders to take ownership of the new market network, ensuring rigorous management and accountability at every level. The initiative reflects a broader vision to modernize Senegal’s commercial ecosystem while safeguarding public welfare.