Senegal market modernisation plan unveiled by prime minister

Senegal’s Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has unveiled a sweeping initiative to transform the nation’s aging market infrastructure, warning of critical safety risks in commercial spaces that have deteriorated since the 1970s.

Addressing the urgency of the situation, Sonko highlighted alarming statistics: between 2013 and 2024, a total of 53 markets across Senegal were ravaged by devastating fires. These incidents underscore the pressing need for structural reform in the country’s market ecosystem.

To address these challenges, the government has rolled out the Market Modernisation and Management Programme (PROMOGEM), featuring a five-year strategic plan (2025–2029). The ambitious programme outlines the complete restructuring of 528 existing markets alongside the construction of 67 new, state-of-the-art facilities designed to meet modern commercial demands.

The Prime Minister also emphasised a critical institutional overhaul for PROMOGEM, aimed at enhancing its operational independence, financial autonomy, and efficiency. In parallel, a substantial investment of 57.5 billion West African CFA francs has been earmarked over four years under the government’s Public Investment Plan. This funding will drive the nationwide rollout of a modernised market network, fostering collaboration between local authorities, private enterprises, and national stakeholders to ensure sustainable growth.

With safety, accessibility, and economic resilience at its core, this initiative marks a pivotal step toward revitalising Senegal’s commercial landscape while safeguarding the livelihoods of market vendors and communities across the country.