Construction has officially begun on the Mbodiene seaside resort, a major development located on the Petite Côte in Senegal’s western Thies region.
Serigne Mamadou Mboup, Managing Director of the Senegal Coastal Development and Promotion Company (SAPCO), marked the commencement of works on Tuesday. This ambitious project is a cornerstone of the national tourism development strategy, aiming to invigorate the local economy and bolster Senegal’s international appeal.
“The Mbodiene development program is ambitious and structured,” stated Mr. Mboup. The comprehensive plan includes the construction of 3,000 hotel rooms and 2,000 residential units. Additionally, the resort will feature high-level sports facilities, a modern shopping center with dedicated shopping avenues, a promenade along the lagoon, a craft village, and an open-air theater.
The total investment for the project is estimated at 665 billion CFA francs. Of this, 600 billion CFA francs will come from the private sector, with public authorities mobilizing the remaining 65 billion CFA francs. The first phase alone is projected to generate 15,000 direct jobs and nearly 30,000 indirect jobs.
The Mbodiene seaside resort aims to transform its exceptional natural site—known for its mangrove-lined lagoon, fine sandy beaches, and unspoiled dunes—into a leading destination in West Africa, harmonizing modernity with environmental preservation. The launch ceremony brought together numerous political, economic, and local figures, underscoring the government’s strong commitment to this initiative.
SAPCO, as the project manager, plans a phased construction approach over several years, integrating high-end hotel infrastructure, commercial spaces, and diverse leisure and cultural facilities. In a context where tourism is a vital driver for Senegal’s economic diversification, this project also seeks to promote responsible tourism by protecting coastal ecosystems and encouraging the active involvement of local communities in their management and economic benefits.
Through this initiative, Senegal endeavors to enhance the attractiveness of the Petite Côte, already recognized for resorts such as Saly and Somone, and solidify its position as a regional benchmark for sustainable, innovative, and high-quality tourism.
TE/Sf/fss/abj/APA