Prime minister Sonko unveils bold reforms for markets, agriculture and digitalization

In a decisive move to revitalize key sectors, Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko chaired a high-level ministerial council meeting, unveiling sweeping reforms aimed at modernizing public markets, boosting agricultural output, and accelerating the digital transformation of government services. The ambitious plan, backed by a 57.5 billion FCFA investment package, underscores a commitment to enhanced governance and tighter inter-ministerial coordination.

During Wednesday’s session, Sonko highlighted critical priorities: revamping public procurement systems, preparing for the 2026-2027 agricultural season, implementing flood prevention measures, and finalizing the Sénégal Connect Park project.

Public market overhaul: a historic restructuring drive

Assessing the state of markets across the country, the Prime Minister painted a stark picture. Many facilities built in the 1970s now face severe structural decay and escalating security risks. Records show 53 market fires between 2013 and 2024, exposing systemic vulnerabilities in market infrastructure.

The government is rolling out the Programme de Modernisation et de Gestion des Marchés (PROMOGEM), with a strategic plan running through 2029. The initiative targets the renovation of 528 existing markets and the construction of 67 new, state-of-the-art facilities. To strengthen execution, Sonko proposed granting PROMOGEM greater administrative and financial independence and allocated 57.5 billion FCFA over four years under the national public investment plan.

The Prime Minister urged all relevant ministries to collaborate on creating a nationwide network of modern markets, managed through partnerships between local authorities and national private-sector players.

Agricultural campaign: transparency and technology integration

Turning to agricultural preparations for the 2026-2027 season, Sonko acknowledged progress in certified seed and fertilizer production, particularly through the Institut Sénégalais de Recherches Agricoles (ISRA) and seed cooperatives. However, persistent challenges remain: incomplete seed autonomy, uneven distribution of agricultural inputs, limited access to farm credit, and storage capacity shortfalls.

Sonko emphasized accelerating digital adoption in agriculture, already piloted in regions like Tivaouane and Nioro. He called for greater transparency in input pricing, consistent distribution across all regions, and enhanced digital tracking of agricultural programs.

Flood prevention: urgent measures ahead of the rainy season

With the rainy season approaching, the Prime Minister stressed the need for urgent cross-ministerial action to mitigate flood risks. Key actions include dredging drainage networks, inspecting flood-control infrastructure, pre-positioning response teams, and updating municipal emergency plans.

Sonko also mandated the strengthening of early warning systems and the organization of an inter-ministerial simulation exercise before June 15, 2026, to test preparedness and coordination.

Sénégal Connect Park: unlocking digital sovereignty

The Prime Minister highlighted the strategic importance of the Sénégal Connect Park—a cornerstone project for digital sovereignty, innovation, and the growth of the digital economy. While physical progress stands at an impressive 95 percent, financial and contractual hurdles continue to delay completion.

Sonko directed relevant agencies to submit a realistic finalization timeline to the African Development Bank (AfDB) promptly. He also called for accelerated talks with the West African Development Bank (BOAD) and resolution of concession negotiations to break the current impasse.