In 2016, Senegal launched DS2025, its strategy to develop its digital economy by 2025. The strategy is focused on several sectors to allow the modernization of the economy and improve competitiveness. 

In Senegal, 105,000 jobs will be created in the digital sector by 2025. The figure was disclosed by Minister of Digital Economy Yankhoba Diattara, Tuesday, August 30, while opening the third edition of the National Digital Forum and the second edition of the Head of State’s Grand Prize for Digital Innovation. 

According to the official, it will be the result of key reforms of the “Digital Senegal 2025” strategy, which will “undoubtedly allow the structural transformation” of the country’s economy,  “position it as a digital hub in West Africa, and boost the digital sector’s contribution to GDP by 10% by 2025.” 

Indeed, to successfully implement the strategy, the government will undertake a certain number of actions, which will create those jobs. For instance, the country intends to increase internet access for an expanded digital economy. Its plan in that regard is to increase 4G coverage to 90% and halve fixed and mobile internet costs. 

Also, to facilitate digital adoption, the government recently adopted a startup law that will ease the development of innovative companies. It also plans to provide financial and technical support to guarantee the seamless development of innovative industries. 

During his August 30 address, Yankhoba Diattara acknowledged that much remains to be done to reach the 2025 goal. However, he also expressed confidence in the country reaching those goals by the set deadline because the government is much committed to developing the “digital economy by injecting significant resources to strengthen the ecosystem.” 

Samira Njoya