Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has highlighted the critical state of Senegal’s markets, drawing attention to the advanced dilapidation of numerous commercial facilities, many of which date back to the 1970s.

He underscored the significant safety hazards prevalent in these trading hubs, noting that 53 markets nationwide experienced fire incidents between 2013 and 2024.

In response to this pressing situation, Sonko introduced the Market Modernization and Management Program (PROMOGEM). Its strategic blueprint for 2025-2029 outlines the comprehensive renovation of 528 existing markets and the construction of 67 brand-new, contemporary market complexes.

The Prime Minister also advocated for a crucial institutional overhaul of PROMOGEM to enhance its administrative and financial independence. To support this initiative, a substantial allocation of 57.5 billion CFA francs over four years has been earmarked within the State’s Public Investment Plan.

The government’s ultimate goal, he explained, is to establish a cutting-edge network of markets across the entire national territory, managed through a stringent framework involving both local territorial collectives and the national private sector.