Senegal has a long democratic tradition and is politically stable. Its history is characterised by high growth rates, democratic elections and peaceful transfer of power. The Senegal Development Plan has triggered a reform and investment programme and is expected to change the country's status to “emerging economy” by 2035. Recently discovered gas and oil reserves will contribute to further growth in the densely populated country. In addition to agriculture, other important economic sectors include mining, services and tourism.
Achieving the government’s desired goals is still hampered by growing public debt, low economic diversification, high unemployment and rapid population growth. Despite the massive expansion over the past ten years, the high potential of renewable energies is still insufficiently exploited. Economic growth is hampered by a lack of trained specialists. Food shortages repeatedly occur, which trigger hunger protests. Droughts and poor harvests are increasing as a result of climate change. To date, more than half of the country’s food is imported.
Due to its focus on reform, the German Federal Government decided to enter into a reform partnership with Senegal.
On behalf of the German Federal Government, KfW is financing projects in the following areas:
KfW contributes to better administration of land rights in Senegal, for example by setting up a land register and automated administration of land rights. An easily accessible complaints mechanism is being set up.
KfW is also facilitating access to financial services for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Senegal, for example by supporting a microfinance institution. MSMEs can expand their production, become more competitive and create more jobs. This stabilises employment and income in the country.
As part of the reform partnership, KfW is contributing to promoting vocational training in Senegal. Vocational schools are being rehabilitated and better equipped. It participates in a vocational training fund that finances continuing education. This will enable previously disadvantaged groups in particular to raise their qualifications and expand their opportunities on the labour market.
KfW is promoting the expansion of renewable energies both by financing large-scale solar power plants feeding into the national power grid and by setting up seven decentralised, rural stand-alone grids in remote regions.
A battery storage facility at the largest solar plant in Diass ensures that demand can also be met during peak periods. KfW contributes to improving energy efficiency by supporting the rehabilitation and modernisation of electricity distribution grids in new cities. Smart meters are being installed, and further households are being connected to the power grid.
This politically stable country in western Africa is one of Germany’s most important partner countries within the framework of a reform partnership.
