Senegal’s Prime Minister mobilizes national task force to revive 245 stalled public projects and assets
The Prime Minister of Senegal, Ousmane Sonko, chaired an interministerial council on infrastructure development today at the Administrative Building President Mamadou Dia. Following a comprehensive audit, the government identified 245 public infrastructure projects and assets facing financial, legal, technical, or operational bottlenecks, with total investments exceeding several trillion West African CFA francs.
Unveiling the scale of stalled infrastructure
The audit revealed a concerning picture of public asset underutilization across Senegal. Among the most pressing issues are 30 completed but inactive infrastructures, 25 of which remain completely stalled, representing a frozen investment of 279 billion FCFA. Fifteen of these projects have been classified as high priority due to their economic and strategic importance for the nation.
Additionally, the government identified 23 operational assets that could be recycled or optimized, valued at an estimated 1,065 billion FCFA. There are also 94 ongoing projects, 62 of which are currently at a standstill, with a total investment commitment of 5,227 billion FCFA. Completing these will require an additional 973 billion FCFA in funding.
The state’s real estate and land portfolio was also scrutinized, with 97 properties—primarily located in Dakar—valued at 132 billion FCFA in potential market revenue.
Immediate action plan announced
In response to these findings, Prime Minister Sonko directed the Secretary-General of the Government to establish a dedicated task force under his leadership, effective immediately. This committee will conduct weekly reviews and must deliver an operational roadmap by June 30, 2026.
The task force’s mandate includes:
- Identifying solutions to complete stalled construction projects
- Developing sustainable management and operational models
- Implementing strategies to recycle and maximize the value of public assets
Root causes and targeted projects
The audit highlighted that financial constraints are the primary obstacle, with 42 projects delayed due to insufficient funding, payment delays, or inadequate investment credits. Other projects are hindered by technical challenges, legal disputes, or the absence of viable operational frameworks.
Prime Minister Sonko emphasized the paradox of completed but unused infrastructure, some standing idle for years. He attributed this to coordination failures, lack of final acceptance, or misalignment with actual public needs.
Key projects earmarked for intervention include:
- Port and maritime facilities in Foundiougne, Soumbédioune, and Ndangane
- Youth and Citizenship Houses across multiple regions
- Naatangué ANIDA village farms and agropoles in Mpal, Adéane, Dioulacoulon, and Mbellacadiao
- Major stalled initiatives such as the Sine-Saloum University, 45 Digital Open Spaces (ENO), regional airports in Saint-Louis, Matam, and Kolda, the Ndayane Container Terminal, the Joola Ship Memorial, and Aristide Le Dantec Hospital
The government is also prioritizing public-private partnerships to enhance the utilization of national stadiums, parks, natural reserves, and certain state-owned real estate assets, including diplomatic representations abroad.
Strategic objectives and long-term impact
Through this sweeping audit and rationalization effort, the Senegalese government aims to boost the efficiency of public investment, reduce dormant assets, and improve the return on state-funded infrastructure. The initiative reflects a broader commitment to economic revitalization and responsible resource management.
