In response to a request from the Senegalese government, the European Union (EU) has approved support of 30 million euros, or 19.650 billion CFA francs, to help prevent irregular departures of migrants using makeshift boats.

« These funds will be used to strengthen the authorities’ capacities to rescue and assist migrants in danger, to combat migrant smuggling and human trafficking, and to raise awareness about the dangers of irregular migration.

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« Our key message is that we do not want to see any more tragedies at sea, » said Jutta Urpilainen, European Commissioner for International Partnerships, on Wednesday, during her visit to Senegal from 15 to 16 October 2024. The mission allowed the Commissioner to discuss with the authorities the priorities of the new government and the results of the EU’s partnership with Senegal in the key sectors of the European Global Gateway strategy. She took the opportunity to visit sustainable infrastructure such as the Hann Bay Urban and Industrial Water Treatment Plant, the Madiba Vaccinopole and the Port and Logistics Training Centre.

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“With Global Gateway, it is about creating relationships and connections, empowering young people in local communities and regions in their entirety. We will continue to create more opportunities for young people, with young Senegalese people, to build together a sustainable and inclusive future. Global Gateway is the EU’s tool to contribute to sustainable development in Senegal. We have already seen significant returns on investment from Global Gateway’s flagship initiatives, for example in terms of local manufacturing of vaccines and medicines. With the public-private investment of €200 million, the EU and its Member States, through Team Europe, have partnered with Senegal to revive the pharmaceutical sector,” recalled Ms. Urpilainen. She also announced a new donation of €25 million, more than 16.3 billion CFA francs, which will contribute to the development of skills, qualifications and research in the pharmaceutical field. This aid will complement the EU’s support for the Madiba vaccine manufacturing plant.

Other EU investments, according to the Commissioner, aim to improve urban mobility in Dakar, support the depollution of Hann Bay and strengthen Senegal’s food sovereignty.
By Dialigué FAYE / dialigue@lequotidien.sn

  • Translation by Ndey T. SOSSEH