Modernizing the administration to improve efficiency and equip it for the challenges of the new economy is a key focus for Senegal's President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye. President Faye is committed to implementing reforms that will optimize governmental effectiveness in this vital area.
Senegal Numérique SA (Sénum SA), the state-run agency responsible for managing Senegal's digital infrastructure, has a new leader. Isidore Diouf (pictured right) took the helm on Friday, June 7, succeeding Cheikh Bakhoum (pictured center) who served for nearly a decade (9 years, 11 months).
Diouf, tasked with executing President Bassirou Diomaye Faye's digital policy, outlined his strategic vision. He views digital technology as an engine for development across various sectors, including economic, industrial, healthcare, and education. He positions Sénégal Numérique, designated a "strategic state enterprise," as central to this transformation.
Diouf identified key elements for success: building robust and secure digital infrastructure, acting as a central hub to coordinate government digital programs, fostering collaboration with Information Systems Departments (DSI) within the government, and establishing strong partnerships with stakeholders in the digital space.
Diouf will build upon the accomplishments of his predecessor, Bakhoum, whose initiatives have positioned Senegal as a leader in the West African digital landscape. Notable achievements include the Smart Senegal project, the deployment of nearly 4,400 kilometers of fiber optic cable, the SHARE submarine cable, the construction of the national data center in Diamniadio (commissioned in 2021), and the digitization of numerous administrative procedures.
The new director's focus is on bridging the digital divide within Senegal and diversifying state revenue. According to official 2021 statistics, the digital economy currently contributes about 3.3% to GDP, while internet penetration sits at roughly 46%. The Sénégal Numérique 2025 (SN2025) strategy aims to increase the digital economy's share of GDP to 10%.
Samira Njoya
