Abdourahmane Sarr deciphers the new "Senegal 2050" reference framework

Against a tense global economic backdrop, Abdourahmane SarrMinister of the Economy, Planning and Cooperation, told the newspaper Le Soleil on the major economic issues facing Senegal. During the interview, he addressed subjects ranging from the audit of public finances to the downgrading of Senegal's sovereign rating by Moody's. But it was above all the new "Senegal 2050" framework that was at the heart of the discussions.

A benchmark for building the future

The Minister went back over the origins of the "Senegal 2050" project, launched last October. According to him, this frame of reference is part of the continuity of the political project that led to the election of the President. Bassirou Diomaye Faye. The main objective is to provide a clear roadmap for the country's development over the coming decades. It is a document designed by Senegalese 100 % skills, including both public and private players. The process, though rapid, was relatively inclusive, involving sectoral ministries and civil society in particular.

One of the major innovations of this reference system lies in the paradigm shift it proposes. Abdourahmane Sarr emphasized that the private sector is now called upon to play a leading role in Senegal's economic development. Unlike the last 60 years, when the state went into debt to finance development projects, "Sénégal 2050" relies on the strength of the private sector to bring about this change. The contribution of Performances Group, headed by Victor Ndiaye, was also highlighted, with remuneration details not deemed essential by the Minister, although some observers have suggested a sum of 2 billion FCFA.

Four structuring axes for development

The new reference framework is based on four major pillars: good governance, human capital and social protection, regional planning and sustainable development, and economic competitiveness. These pillars aim to create a more competitive and resilient economy, while ensuring inclusive growth that reduces social and regional inequalities. The Minister also insisted on the need to deconcentrate development away from centralizing everything in Dakar, thus encouraging territorial rebalancing.

With regard to the financing of the five-year investment plan, estimated at 18,500 billion FCFA, Abdourahmane Sarr explained that it falls within the existing macroeconomic framework, notably through public-private partnerships. He was keen to reassure that this amount includes public investments already planned, but does not take into account those from the private sector not coordinated by the State, thus reinforcing the idea that private dynamics will be a fundamental driver of future growth.

Minister Abdourahmane Sarr reaffirmed that "Senegal 2050" represents a major break with the past. By placing the private sector at the heart of development and relying on the principles of good governance and sustainability, this reference framework gives Senegal the means to build a resilient, competitive and inclusive economy over the long term.