Sonko pushes for completion and operationalization of stalled Senegal infrastructure projects

SÉNÉGAL — GOVERNMENT

The Prime Minister has called on government members to prioritize the completion and operationalization of ongoing infrastructure projects within their respective ministries. Speaking after a high-level interministerial council meeting in Dakar, Ousmane Sonko emphasized the urgent need to unlock 62 stalled projects, ranging from maritime facilities to educational and health institutions.

Maritime and port projects in focus

Among the key projects highlighted are the Foundiougne-Ndakhonga port, the Ndangane Sambou fishing quay in the central region, the Soumbédioune landing site in the capital, and processing facilities in Rufisque. Additionally, the government is pushing for the timely deployment of maritime dredgers operated by the National Maritime Affairs Agency in Kaolack and Fatick. Sonko specifically tasked the Minister of Fisheries and Maritime Economy with expediting these initiatives through strategic public-private partnerships.

Blocked projects and infrastructure bottlenecks

The Prime Minister drew attention to critical stalled projects, including the Sine-Saloum El Hâdj Ibrahima Niass University, open digital spaces, regional airports in Saint-Louis, Matam, and Kolda, the Nadayane container terminal, and cold storage facilities. The reconstruction of Dakar’s Aristide Le Dantec Hospital was also flagged as a priority. To address these delays, a dedicated committee will be established to oversee financial, administrative, and legal measures for their swift resolution while maintaining strict quality and cost standards.

Technical oversight and sustainable development

Sonko stressed the importance of integrating robust technical considerations into infrastructure planning. He urged ministers to ensure proper provision for water, electricity, and telecommunications networks in project designs, along with sustainable operational models and maintenance frameworks. The Prime Minister also highlighted the need to finalize youth and citizenship centers under construction in Tivaouane, Mbour, Linguère, Ranérou, Bambey, Diourbel, Kaolack, and Tambacounda by November 30, 2026.

Agricultural and agro-industrial initiatives

The interministerial meeting reviewed progress on 11 Naatangué village farms across Fatick, Kaolack, Louga, Thiès, and Tambacounda, as well as agro-parks in Mpal, Adéane, Dioulacolon, and Mbellacadiao. Sonko directed ministries overseeing Agriculture, Industry, Finance, and local governance to collaborate on sustainable exploitation models with private partners, ensuring timely service delivery and alignment with community needs.

Strategic partnerships for infrastructure valorization

The Prime Minister advocated for innovative approaches to unlock the potential of underutilized assets, including long-term leases, concessions, rehabilitation, or administrative reallocation. This strategy applies to youth centers, digital spaces, women’s facilities, agro-parks, and even national stadiums. For diplomatic and consular properties abroad, Sonko called for a tailored valorization mechanism that respects both national interests and host country regulations, with a follow-up meeting to formalize a coherent policy.

The government also examined strategies for optimizing public assets such as postal services, railway and airport infrastructures, highways, universities, hospitals, and military properties. Sonko emphasized exploring private sector involvement to enhance operational efficiency and ensure optimal utilization of these resources.