A Collaborative Effort to Accelerate Senegal’s Transition to Electric Mobility
In a significant stride towards reducing its carbon footprint, Senegal is taking decisive steps to transition to electric mobility, thanks to the collaborative efforts of Manufacturing Africa (MA) and the Government of Senegal.
MA has provided important technical assistance to Senegal’s Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure (MITTA) by developing comprehensive recommendations for an electric mobility regulatory framework. This support encompassed several key areas, including an analysis of the current state of electric vehicles (EVs) in Senegal, and the development of detailed case studies of EV adoption strategies from other African markets and emerging economies like Kenya, Rwanda, India, Indonesia, and Thailand. Additionally, various scenarios and practical use cases for EVs in Senegal such as two-wheelers and mass transport systems (buses) were explored.
MA’s recommendations covered a broad spectrum of policies that could be integrated into Senegal’s EV regulatory framework including quality standards, fiscal and non-fiscal incentives, and a roadmap for the development and implementation of the regulatory framework.
Electric vehicle charging port.
The efforts culminated in a high-level workshop organized by Senegal’s Ministry of Transport in partnership with MA. The workshop aimed at presenting MA’s recommendations, saw participation from key players in Senegal’s transport ecosystem, comprising both public and private sector actors in the EV space.
The event was officially opened by Senegal’s Minister of Transport, H.E Mr. Malick Ndiaye, and the UK Ambassador to Senegal, Ms. Juliette John.
In his address, Minister Ndiaye emphasized the importance of establishing a robust policy framework to attract local assemblers, importers, and users to adopt EVs. He acknowledged the support from Manufacturing Africa, stating, “With the help of Manufacturing Africa, we are looking for ways and means to equip our country not only with a regulatory framework but also with the necessary devices to influence the Senegalese to use more electric vehicles.” Minister Ndiaye highlighted the benefits of transitioning to sustainable transport for instance reduced transport costs and a more comfortable mass transport system with preferential rates. He also called upon the private sector to present technical and financial proposals for investment in EV charging infrastructure.
UK Ambassador to Senegal, Ms. Juliette John, expressed her pleasure in attending the workshop saying, “I am pleased to attend this workshop that presents the recommendations of the Manufacturing Africa technical assistance that will contribute to more green growth and less pollution in Senegal.”
The workshop ignited a public conversation about electric vehicles, evidenced by extensive coverage in TV and print media, as well as social media platforms. This momentum led to the establishment of an intra-governmental task force charged with advancing MA’s recommendations.
With a clear roadmap and strong stakeholder engagement, Senegal is well on its way to creating a greener, more efficient transport system that benefits both the economy and the environment. The transition to electric vehicles promises to also enhance the quality of life for citizens through a more sustainable and comfortable transport system.
Senegal’s Minister of Transport, H.E Mr. Malick Ndiaye gives remarks during the workshop.
