Truckers push for smoother transit on Dakar-Bamako corridor

A long line of trucks stretches nearly 15 kilometers at the Moussala border crossing in Sénégal, as drivers wait to enter Mali. The bottleneck has become a persistent challenge, exacerbated by insufficient infrastructure to handle the growing volume of commercial traffic between the two countries.

Daouda Singui Sarr, Director of Promotion and Assistance at the Cosec (Conseil Sénégalais des Chargeurs), highlights the mounting difficulties faced by transporters. « Transit delays are on the rise, and these extended waiting times directly translate into additional costs for hauliers, » he explains. « Drivers also face harsh conditions, especially during the rainy season, with limited access to basic amenities. »

The surge in traffic is largely driven by the booming mining sector, which has intensified cross-border trade. In response, authorities in Kidira have already initiated the development of a 15-hectare truck parking lot. Now, stakeholders are exploring similar solutions for the Moussala crossing to alleviate congestion.

Cosec is advocating for immediate action, including the duplication of Kidira’s modern parking project at Moussala. « Our customs and border police counterparts have already reinforced staffing to expedite truck clearances. Why not replicate the same model here? » Sarr questions.

Local authorities are expected to roll out urgent measures in the coming weeks to streamline operations and ease the pressure on this critical trade route.