Senegal's President Urges Accelerated Economic Reforms and Youth Employment Drive

Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has reiterated his commitment to national economic revival and private sector development, calling on the Prime Minister to initiate consultations with private sector organizations to address their concerns and improve the business climate. During a statement on Wednesday, the President emphasized the need for the accelerated and progressive clearance of domestic debt, coupled with increased state support to both public and private enterprises facing difficulties, in order to revive investment, preserve production capacity, and consolidate jobs.

President Faye also underscored the importance of optimizing the "SunuChampions" initiative and other programs aimed at strengthening the competitiveness and attractiveness of the national economy. He instructed the Prime Minister to convene the necessary technical and inter-ministerial meetings to prepare for the upcoming Presidential Investment Council. Furthermore, the government was directed to finalize a draft framework law on economic patriotism, which will incorporate an innovative financing doctrine for the national economy.

The President called for an evaluation of the economic component of the National Pact for Social Stability for inclusive and sustainable growth, with the aim of preparing the next Social Conference scheduled before the end of 2026, which will focus on labor productivity.

Addressing youth employment, President Faye stressed that employability and professional integration of young people remain major national priorities. He invited the Prime Minister, along with the ministers responsible for Employment, Civil Service, and Labor, to accelerate the implementation of the National Employment Policy. He also requested the convening of an inter-ministerial council on employment, which should result in an urgent, multi-sectoral operational plan to promote youth employability and employment across the national territory, supported by enhanced public and private mechanisms for supervision and financing.