ECOWAS, Senegal partner to revive historic Dakar-Bamako Railway Line

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has teamed up with the Senegalese government to rejuvenate one of the region’s most strategic transport networks, the Dakar–Bamako Railway Line.

A high-powered ECOWAS delegation, led by the Commissioner for Infrastructure, Energy and Digitalization, Honourable Sediko Douka, arrived in Senegal on a two-day official visit aimed at fast-tracking critical infrastructure projects.

Accompanied by the ECOWAS Director of Transport, Mr. Chris Appiah, and the Acting Director of the Project Preparation and Development Unit (PPDU), Mr. Kebba Fye, the delegation placed a special focus on reviving Phase 1 of the railway, which covers the stretch between Dakar and Tambacounda. Discussions also covered progress on the Praia–Dakar–Abidjan Multimodal Corridor, another major regional transport initiative aimed at boosting economic integration in West Africa.

The team was warmly received by Senegal’s Minister of Infrastructure, Transport and Aviation, Honourable Yankhoba Dieme, who described the Dakar–Tambacounda railway rehabilitation as a top priority for the government. He expressed Senegal’s readiness to work closely with ECOWAS to restore the line, which holds significant economic importance for both Senegal and neighbouring Mali.

Commissioner Douka reiterated ECOWAS’ commitment to supporting member countries in the development of key infrastructure projects that will strengthen regional ties and open up new economic opportunities for citizens.

The visit is expected to hasten the implementation of vital transport infrastructure and reinforce cooperation between the regional bloc and its member states.