Government’s urgent call to curb flood risks ahead of Senegal’s rainy season
Dakar — In a decisive move to fortify Senegal against seasonal flooding, the Prime Minister has issued a stern directive to key government ministries to implement critical preventive measures before the onset of the rainy season.
During Wednesday’s cabinet meeting, the Prime Minister outlined precise instructions to ministers responsible for flood prevention, emphasizing the need for immediate action. According to the government spokesperson, Marie Rose Faye, the directives included updating and validating all municipal emergency plans, ensuring early warning systems and communication channels are fully operational, and positioning intervention resources strategically.
The Prime Minister also mandated the organization of a cross-ministerial simulation exercise to be completed by June 15, 2026, to test readiness and coordination among government departments.
Strengthening infrastructure and coordination
The government’s proactive stance reflects a broader commitment to enhancing flood resilience. The Prime Minister praised the preparatory efforts already underway by the Ministry of Hydraulics and Sanitation, including:
- Clearing drainage networks and verifying infrastructure integrity;
- Strategically positioning water pumps in flood-prone zones;
- Developing and finalizing emergency response plans.
The Prime Minister underscored the interministerial nature of flood prevention, calling for seamless collaboration among all state agencies. He stressed that the Ministry of Hydraulics and Sanitation would lead these efforts, with the Ministry of the Interior providing critical support in civil protection and crisis management.
A unified strategy to mitigate flood damage
By prioritizing these measures, the government aims to minimize the impact of flooding, protect communities, and ensure rapid response capabilities. The coordinated approach is designed to address both immediate risks and long-term vulnerabilities, reinforcing Senegal’s resilience against seasonal weather challenges.
