Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko unveiled an economic and social recovery plan on August 1, centered on mobilising domestic resources.
A key measure is the introduction of an electronic visa system for certain countries, aimed at boosting state revenue and modernising border management.
Speaking at the National Grand Theatre in Dakar, in the presence of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, Prime Minister Sonko laid out a series of structural reforms designed to stabilise public finances and revive the national economy through the mobilisation of endogenous resources.
Among the highlights of the plan is the implementation of a fiscal e-visa system.
According to Sonko, the new visa requirement will apply to nationals of all non-African countries, as well as African countries that require visas for Senegalese citizens, in line with the principle of reciprocity. The measure is expected to generate CFAF 60 billion in additional revenue between 2025 and 2028.
The PM said the move reflects a desire to better regulate migration flows, ensure fiscal fairness, and enhance state revenue. He stressed that the electronic visa is a modern tool that will not only secure income streams but also streamline border control processes through digitalisation.
This initiative forms part of a broader fiscal consolidation and economic sovereignty strategy, which seeks to reduce Senegal’s reliance on foreign financing, in line with the goals outlined in the government’s Economic and Social Recovery Plan.
AC/lb/as/APA