Senegal is about to take a major step in its digital transformation with the official launch of the "Technological New Deal" on February 24, 2025.
"Senegal 2050" is beginning to take shape. The land of teranga aims to provide a favorable environment for the development of technology companies, particularly startups. The announced goal is to transform the country into a leader in digital innovation in Africa by 2034.
In this perspective, the launch of the Technological New Deal is scheduled for February 24, 2025.
Technological sovereignty is the central pillar of this initiative. Senegalese authorities aspire to develop national digital infrastructures, including the creation of a sovereign cloud in partnership with Google, to secure sensitive data belonging to citizens and institutions.
Universal access to the internet is another major project within Senegal’s strategy, aiming to extend connectivity to rural and remote areas. To achieve this, Senegal is counting on Google, as well as other American firms like Starlink, to bridge the digital divide.
Senegalese authorities recognize that no strategy can be successful without dynamic and creative human resources. This is why the country plans to intensify the training of local talent in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and cloud computing, with the support of partners like Meta and NVIDIA.
Another key element is the promotion of innovation and entrepreneurship, with significant support for startups and local SMEs through funding and support programs, facilitating their access to advanced technologies.
During his visit to Silicon Valley in September 2024, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye laid the groundwork for strategic partnerships with tech giants such as Google, Meta, and NVIDIA. These collaborations aim to equip Senegal with cutting-edge infrastructure and foster a dynamic digital ecosystem.
Legislative Framework
In Africa, the rise of startups requires a suitable framework to maximize their impact and strengthen their contribution to the digital economy. Senegal has understood this well and now offers a legislative framework for these new drivers of its economy.
Recently, the government adopted, in a Council of Ministers meeting, the implementing decree for Law No. 2020-01 of January 6, 2020, concerning the creation and promotion of startups.
This decree establishes a clear regulatory framework and incentives to support young innovative businesses.
The law aims to stimulate the creation and development of startups in Senegal, emphasizing key principles such as creativity, innovation, the use of new technologies, and competitiveness at both national and international levels.
To qualify for this status, startups must be based in Senegal and have at least one-third of their capital owned by Senegalese nationals, whether residents or expatriates.
Existing companies that meet the criteria defined by the law will also be eligible for this status, benefiting from advantages such as facilitation measures, preferential customs regimes, training and capacity-building programs, specific tax incentives, and financing opportunities.
The adoption of this law is part of Senegal’s broader digital transformation strategy.
