Senegal President Bassirou Diomaye Faye outlines blue‑economy plan at Dakar maritime forum

President Bassirou Diomaye Faye opened the first National Forum on the Development of Maritime Transport and Logistics in Dakar, presenting his vision for Senegal’s blue economy as a key engine of growth and national sovereignty. He stressed that “our maritime sovereignty is not negotiable”.

The forum aims to transform Senegal’s more than 700 km of coastline and inland waterways into a competitive hub for maritime and river transport in West Africa. Participants highlighted challenges such as low maritime traffic, dependence on foreign shipowners, ageing port facilities, security and environmental risks, and called for deep‑water ports, improved logistical corridors and expanded training programmes.

Faye announced a dedicated university for the blue economy and a broad skills‑development program for youth in maritime sectors, linking these initiatives to the Agenda Senegal 2050 strategic plan.