Water Security in Senegal

Water security is the bedrock of Senegal’s development and key to its socio-economic development goals.  Deteriorating water resources and an inadequate institutional framework, however, are threatening both the country’s water security and economic growth. While the national socio-economic development plan (Plan Senegal Emergent - PSE) aims to mobilize “abundant, good quality water for all, everywhere, and for all uses in a healthy, sustainable living environment” by 2035, it does not consider constraints linked to water resources availability or management.

Against this backdrop, the Government of Senegal, through the Ministry of Water and Sanitation (MEA), requested World Bank support to carry out this study on water security. The study finds that because water demand in Senegal already exceeds available resources, it is essential to diversify supply. A circular economy approach to water security could bring enormous benefits, helping the country develop wastewater reuse for aquifer recharge and irrigation, while capitalizing on wetlands and green infrastructure to improve stormwater management and capture. Recommendations from the report include loss reduction and efficiency measures, fit-for-purpose source allocation and the development of non-conventional resources such as desalination and wastewater recycling.

Challenges and Recommendations for Water Security in Senegal at National Level and in the Dakar-Mbour-Thiès Triangle assesses the attention given to water resource management and identifies barriers to achieving water security. The study also takes a closer look at the Greater Dakar region, where achieving water security will be most critical to development.

As one of the fastest growing economies in Africa, Senegal is poised to become a key trade hub with a strong technology sector. But this will not be possible without addressing water challenges. Achieving water security will require investments for resilient growth and key actions around institutions, specifically, in-depth reforms of the legal and organizational frameworks for water and sanitation services. The World Bank remains committed to support Senegal as it develops long-term strategies for sustainable water resources management.

Abstract based on source.