The Senegalese National Assembly has launched an initiative to enhance its control over the country's defense and security sector. On September 22, 2026, a workshop titled "Foundations of Parliamentary Oversight of the Security Sector in Senegal" was held, presided over by Mbène Faye, the fourth vice-president of the National Assembly. The event, organized by the Center for Strategic Studies of Africa (CESA) in partnership with the Assembly's Defense and Security Commission, aims to equip parliamentarians with the necessary knowledge to effectively oversee the sector.
The workshop seeks to address the evolving nature of security threats facing Senegal, including terrorism, cybercrime, and hybrid threats. Mbène Faye emphasized the need for informed and rigorous oversight, enabling the parliament to exercise its constitutional prerogatives fully. The participants will examine key aspects, such as budgetary control, strategic planning, and the mechanisms of parliamentary oversight. A particular focus is on strengthening the Defense and Security Commission's capabilities to better understand the strategic, budgetary, and operational dimensions of the sector.
Mbène Faye stressed that security is a republican imperative and a major issue of national sovereignty. She called for adapting oversight tools to the new threats, highlighting the importance of expertise in addressing these challenges. The workshop provides a platform for training and exchange, with the goal of enabling parliamentarians to grasp the stakes related to national security and effectively carry out their oversight mission.
The initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance the National Assembly's capacity to address security issues. The CESA's involvement in strengthening the capacities of elected officials and deepening knowledge on strategic issues was praised by Mbène Faye. The workshop will continue until September 24, 2026, and will cover topics such as budget elaboration and control, parliamentary oversight mechanisms, and strategy and planning.
The Senegalese parliament's efforts to strengthen security oversight come amid a complex and evolving threat landscape. Cybercrime and hybrid threats have joined terrorism as key concerns for the country. By enhancing its oversight capabilities, the parliament aims to ensure that the government is equipped to address these challenges effectively.
The workshop has brought together key stakeholders, including parliamentarians, experts, and officials from the defense and security sector. Through discussions and exchanges, participants aim to identify ways to improve the parliament's oversight of the sector and enhance the country's security. The event is seen as a crucial step towards ensuring that Senegal's parliament is equipped to address the country's security challenges.
The Senegalese government's efforts to address security threats have been complemented by initiatives to enhance the country's security infrastructure. Recent developments, such as the launch of a national strategy to combat cybercrime, demonstrate the government's commitment to addressing emerging threats. As the country continues to navigate a complex security landscape, the parliament's strengthened oversight is expected to play a critical role in ensuring national security.
Key points
- The Senegalese parliament is strengthening its oversight of the defense and security sector to address emerging threats like cybercrime and terrorism.
