The Senegalese government has announced plans to invest in infrastructure projects in Ziguinchor, a city in the southern region of Casamance. According to a communiqué from the Council of Ministers, Prime Minister Ahmadou Al Aminou Lô has instructed the ministers of finance and infrastructure to allocate the necessary budget credits for the renovation of the Émile Badiane bridge and the construction of a second bridge in Ziguinchor.
The Émile Badiane bridge is a critical infrastructure in Ziguinchor, and its renovation is expected to improve the city's transportation network. The construction of a second bridge will also help to ease traffic congestion and facilitate the movement of people and goods. The Prime Minister's directive is a significant development for the region, which has been facing infrastructure challenges for years.
In addition to the infrastructure projects, the Prime Minister also discussed the status of the Mémorial du Bateau le Joola, a memorial dedicated to the victims of the Joola ferry disaster that occurred on September 26, 2002. The Prime Minister attended a ceremony marking the 24th anniversary of the disaster, which claimed over 1,800 lives. He was accompanied by a delegation of government officials.
The Prime Minister has instructed the minister of culture to take steps to formalize the status of the Mémorial du Joola. A draft decree will be presented to the Council of Ministers in November 2026. The move is aimed at addressing the concerns of the families of the victims and survivors, who have been advocating for a clearer status for the memorial.
The Prime Minister has also asked the minister of family, social action, and solidarity to ensure that the families of victims and survivors are registered in the national social security register and are beneficiaries of national family security grants. This move is part of the government's efforts to provide support to those affected by the Joola ferry disaster.
The government's commitment to infrastructure development and social support is seen as a positive step for the region. The projects are expected to improve the quality of life for residents and promote economic growth. The Prime Minister's visit to Ziguinchor and his engagement with the local community have been well-received by residents.
The Council of Ministers' decisions are a follow-up to the government's efforts to address the region's development challenges. Further discussions on the "Plan Diomaye pour la Casamance" are scheduled for November 2026. The plan aims to promote economic growth and stability in the region.
Key points
- The Senegalese government has committed to renovating the Émile Badiane bridge and constructing a second bridge in Ziguinchor.
