The Senegalese Ministry of Energy and Petroleum has estimated that 395.8 billion CFA francs, approximately $638 million, is needed to achieve universal access to electricity by 2029. This goal is part of a larger effort to provide electricity to all citizens, particularly in rural areas. Currently, the national access rate to electricity is 86.2%, with rural areas having an access rate of 69.8%.
According to the ministry, 6,471 localities remain to be electrified, mainly in rural areas. To achieve this goal, the government plans to pursue investments in rural electrification and implement solutions adapted to the characteristics of the localities to be served. The ministry aims to guarantee each citizen "equitable, reliable, durable, and affordable" access to electricity, contributing to the reduction of territorial disparities and socio-economic development.
The government will hold a roundtable discussion on October 6 in Dakar to bring together technical and financial partners, the private sector, and civil society. The goal is to present priority strategies and programs for universal access to electricity, as well as financing plans for their implementation. The discussion will also focus on officializing new projects, financing, and partnerships, and encouraging new commitments in favor of universal access to electricity.
In 2021, a roundtable discussion was held, resulting in the mobilization of 237 billion FCFA from technical and financial partners. Since then, Senegal has made significant progress, and the path forward has been quantified, localized, and budgeted. The upcoming roundtable discussion will aim to accelerate the concretization of commitments, financing, and partnerships identified, particularly within the framework of the National Compact for Energy.
The ministry's efforts focus on ensuring that every citizen has access to electricity, regardless of their location. This involves not only expanding the electricity grid but also implementing solutions tailored to the specific needs of different areas. By achieving universal access to electricity, the government aims to promote socio-economic development and reduce territorial disparities.
The October 6 roundtable discussion will also provide an opportunity for the government to present the opportunities and modalities of participation of companies in the implementation of national priorities. The event aims to launch a reinforced dynamic of engagement with the private sector and to identify the main milestones for the implementation of commitments.
Senegal's efforts to achieve universal access to electricity are part of a broader strategy to promote economic development and improve living standards. The government is working to create an enabling environment for investment in the energy sector, which will help to drive economic growth and reduce poverty.
Key points
- The Senegalese government estimates that 395.8 billion CFA francs ($638 million) is needed to achieve universal access to electricity by 2029.
