Senegal's President Outlines Economic Reforms and Backs World Cup Team

President Bassirou Diomaye Faye convened the Council of Ministers on June 17, 2026, at the Presidential Palace to address key national priorities spanning economic development, youth employment, and the fishing sector. In opening remarks, the President congratulated newly appointed Minister Alain Diouf and expressed strong support for Senegal's national football team following its entry into the FIFA World Cup 2026 against France. He also extended wishes of peace and prosperity to the Islamic community marking the Islamic New Year 1448 H.

Economic revival emerged as a central theme of the President's communication. He identified the relaunch of the national economy and development of the private sector as top governmental priorities, instructing the Prime Minister to conduct consultations with private sector organizations to address their concerns. The President emphasized the need for progressive and accelerated clearance of domestic debt, alongside state support for struggling public and private enterprises to stimulate investment and preserve productive capacity and employment. He highlighted the urgent implementation of the presidential initiative "SunuChampions" and called for optimal execution of competitiveness and attractiveness programs.

The President tasked the government with advancing several strategic initiatives before year-end 2026. These include convening technical and inter-ministerial meetings leading to a Presidential Investment Council, finalizing legislation on economic patriotism with innovative financing mechanisms, and evaluating the economic component of the National Social Stability Pact. He also requested preparation for a major social conference on workplace productivity scheduled before the end of 2026.

Youth employment and employability were designated as paramount national priorities. The President instructed the Prime Minister and relevant ministers to accelerate implementation of the National Employment Policy across all components, and to convene an inter-ministerial employment council to deploy an urgent, multi-sectoral operational plan for youth employability and employment throughout the country, supported by consolidated and effective public and private financing mechanisms.

The fishing sector, recognized as vital to the national economy and social stability, received specific attention. The President directed the Minister of Fisheries and Maritime Economy to strengthen dialogue with sector stakeholders to revitalize artisanal fishing, further regulate industrial fishing activities, enhance transparency in resource exploitation systems, and continue aquaculture development initiatives.