Les Grands Ports du Sénégal un plan Stratégique Ambitieux pour la Croissance et la Compétitivité

Dans le cadre du développement économique du Sénégal, l’Association des Professionnels des Ports et Aéroports du Sénégal (APPAS) a proposé la création d’une structure novatrice dénommée “Les Grands Ports du Sénégal”.

This strategic plan aims to unify and restructure Senegal's port sector to promote economic growth, social development and strengthen the country's international competitiveness.

This ambitious plan is based on a centralized hierarchical approach, with a General Manager supervising local or sectoral Port Managers in each port. This structure harmoniously combines the principles of centralization and decentralization, in order to reconcile unified management with consideration of local realities and the specific needs of each port.

The anticipated benefits of this new structure include national strategic coherence, informed decision-making thanks to the proximity of Port Managers, local flexibility and autonomy, synergy and sharing of resources, and staff capacity building. These benefits are designed to increase operational efficiency, reduce costs and improve the international competitiveness of Senegalese ports.

However, implementing this structure will not be without its challenges, particularly in terms of communication and coordination, checks and balances, monitoring and control, the risk of over-centralization, and human resources management. These challenges will require appropriate mitigation measures and a strong commitment from the players involved to ensure the success and sustainability of the project.

As part of the Strategic Development Plan (SDP) for “Les Grands Ports du Sénégal”, clear objectives have been defined, underpinned by solid guiding principles such as strategic coherence, local flexibility, synergy and collaboration, operational excellence and sustainable development.

The organizational structure, strategic areas of intervention, governance and coordination mechanisms, and monitoring and evaluation strategies have been designed to ensure the success of this initiative.

By integrating oversight and accountability mechanisms, promoting innovation and continuous improvement, and seeking diversified financing, Senegal can transform its port sector into an essential pillar of its economic and social development.

The success of this undertaking depends on the commitment, coordination and shared vision of all the players involved. By following the recommendations for implementing the PSD, Senegal's ports can realize their potential and actively contribute to the prosperity and well-being of the entire Senegalese nation.

Momar Mada FALL: General Manager, Centre Trainmar Dakar

President of APPAS Logistics & supply chain specialist