Lord Collins, ministre britannique pour l’Afrique : "Nous soutenons la transparence du Sénégal et un nouveau programme avec le FMI"
On September 2, 2025, the day after his visit to Senegal as part of the African Food Systems Forum, the British Minister for Africa, Lord Collins of Highbury, spoke in an interview with Seneweb. He detailed the emerging priorities of African partners following the consultation launched by the British government, as well as the evolution of the United Kingdom's approach to Africa, with a particular focus on Senegal.
Following the consultation launched by the British government, what key priorities of African partners have emerged, and how does this feedback shape the UK's new approach to Africa?
Our new approach is based on partnership, not paternalism – sincere partnerships between equals, founded on mutual respect.
We want to listen to what African governments, civil society and businesses are expressing as needs – and act on them.
In Senegal, during our consultations on the Africa approach, we received calls for more British investment—to support industrialization, job creation, and the Senegalese private sector—as well as for better implementation of shared priorities. We have already begun to act, with a sharp increase in trade and investment in Senegal. My visit aims to further strengthen this action on our shared priorities.
Regionally, the new approach will set out how the UK wants to work with African countries to drive sustainable growth, tackle the climate crisis and strengthen security.
How does the visit to Senegal illustrate a shift towards a more modern and collaborative British approach to Africa, and what are the long-term objectives for this partnership with the continent?
My return to Senegal, just one year after my first visit, underscores the strength and depth of our partnership. Senegal is a fast-growing democratic country and an influential regional leader. We aim to strengthen our collaboration in the areas of trade and investment, security, climate, and health.
Looking ahead, the UK's long-term priorities in its partnership with Senegal and the African continent are inclusive economic growth, supporting African-led industrialisation and entrepreneurship, in order to create jobs, reduce poverty and build resilient economies.
A prime example is the Manufacturing Africa program, which operates in Senegal, Kenya, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Rwanda, and Tanzania. In Senegal, since 2021, it has leveraged over $200 million in foreign investment, supported more than 15 industrial companies, created 2,000 jobs, and strengthened local value chains. It also supports Senegal's new industrialization strategy by helping develop investment-ready projects for the Invest in Senegal Forum.
We also work together to support regional stability and security, working with privileged partners like Senegal, to strengthen our shared commitment to a secure and rules-based international order.
Finally, in terms of sustainable development, we continue to defend the rights of women and girls, climate resilience, education and health.
The partnership worth more than 7 billion CFA francs with the Institut Pasteur in Dakar marks a first with an African research institution. What specific results do you expect from this collaboration to strengthen health systems in Africa, and how does it fit into the Sustainable Development Goals?
For me, the partnership with the Institut Pasteur Dakar perfectly embodies what modern, equitable partnerships should be. I am very proud to announce the first strategic partnership between the British Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office and an African health research institution, worth £10 million over four years.
This partnership will strengthen IPD's role in global health, support international health security, and help save lives through vaccine development, outbreak detection, and health systems strengthening. All of this will be achieved in close collaboration with international and UK partners such as the University of Oxford and the UK Health Security Agency.
“The partnership with the Pasteur Institute Dakar perfectly embodies what modern and equitable partnerships should be”
Through this project, the United Kingdom is supporting the IPD as a hub for vaccine research, development, and production. This means that solutions will be created here in Senegal and across Africa, directly supporting the health priorities of President Diomaye Faye's government.
This partnership builds on the UK's long-standing support for IPD, from funding Project Madiba through our Manufacturing Africa program, to supporting Africa's first Covid-19 test, to investments through the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI).
Health is indeed a major global priority for the UK. We are one of the largest donors to the Global Fund and GAVI, and the largest donor to CEPI for vaccine research and development, supporting the fight against infectious diseases while strengthening health systems.
What were the main topics discussed at the second UK-Senegal Strategic Dialogue, and how will this dialogue contribute to deepening bilateral relations in the economic and security fields?
This second Strategic Dialogue demonstrates how our diplomatic relationship has evolved in recent years. We have already signed three agreements in the last three years, in the areas of economy, environment, and defense.
This dialogue is an opportunity to take stock and agree on a common path forward on our shared priorities: strengthening trade and investment, deepening security cooperation, and advancing our common sustainable development goals in the areas of health, climate, women and girls, and education.
We also discussed global challenges together, from supporting stability in the Sahel to our shared commitment to a peaceful resolution to the tragic violence in Gaza. The United Kingdom pledged to recognize the State of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly if Israel fails to take concrete steps in this direction. We also discussed the need to strengthen Africa's voice in the international system and to reform financial institutions for a more just, inclusive, and representative global order.
Later that day, I also met with President Diomaye Diakhar Faye and Finance Minister Cheikh Diba, reaffirming the United Kingdom's strong support for Senegal's transparency efforts and a swift resolution to a new program with the IMF. I announced our support for the Senegalese government's public financial management, through British institutions, to strengthen long-term macroeconomic stability.
“British companies have invested more than 2.810 billion FCFA in the Senegalese economy”
How is the UK supporting private sector development in Senegal, particularly through initiatives such as Invest in Senegal and Vision 2050, and what concrete initiatives are being put in place to strengthen the bilateral economic partnership?
The United Kingdom is a committed, long-term investor in Senegal, making a real impact, and I want to see this continue. Trade between our two countries has tripled since 2020, reaching £855 million (FCFA 650 billion) according to the most recent figures.
British investment is also on the rise, supporting President Diomaye Faye's Vision 2050. The UK is the largest foreign investor in Senegal's energy sector and a major player in other areas such as infrastructure—including the new port of Ndayane and the bus rapid transit (BRT) system.
I had the pleasure of meeting with the new British Chamber of Commerce in Senegal, which now brings together 50 British companies operating in Senegal. Together, these companies have invested more than 2.81 trillion CFA francs in the Senegalese economy.
We support President Faye's Vision 2050, by preparing projects ahead of the "Invest in Senegal" forum planned for October 2025, where the United Kingdom will participate with a dedicated trade mission and a parliamentary delegation.
We also recognize the strategic importance of regional cooperation. That is why we will be holding the fourth edition of the UK-West and Central Francophone Africa Trade and Investment Forum ( WCFA), for the first time on African soil, in Lomé in November.
“We are proud to be the leading energy investor in Senegal and a partner of the Initiative for a Just Energy Transition.”
Given BP's major role in the Grand Tortue Ahmeyim project and the importance of the energy sector in Senegal, how does the UK plan to support the country in maximising the economic and social benefits of its energy resources, while addressing local concerns, particularly regarding sovereignty promoted by the government?
British companies are carrying out major projects in gas and renewable energy. They are working in partnership with Senegalese institutions to employ and train local talent.
We are proud to be the leading energy investor in Senegal and a partner of the Just Energy Transition Initiative (JETP). This initiative will mobilize €2.5 billion (approximately £2.1 billion) to enable Senegal to achieve 40% renewable energy by 2030.
We are also supporting Senegal's capacity building through the transfer of technology and expertise in key sectors, such as artificial intelligence. The United Kingdom is providing FCFA 1 billion in support for the creation of a multidisciplinary AI laboratory at Cheikh Anta Diop University (UCAD) and the Cheikh Hamidou Kane Digital University.
On the environmental front, through the Blue Planet Fund (BPF), we are helping to combat illegal fishing, strengthen marine governance, and develop Senegal's first marine management plan. We are also supporting research capacity with laboratory equipment for the study of microplastics and ten fully funded Master's scholarships in marine science.
“The United Kingdom is working closely with Senegalese security forces and structures in the fight against violent and extremist organizations.”
In the face of the growing terrorist threat in the Sahel, how is the UK working with Senegal to strengthen regional security, and what approaches is it taking to support the Alliance of Sahel States (ESA) countries in managing security and economic challenges, while promoting inclusive growth?
Security is at the heart of our partnership with Senegal. That's why we signed our first defense treaty in 2023, a milestone in our relationship.
The United Kingdom works closely with Senegalese security forces and structures in the fight against violent and extremist organizations, but also in maritime security and the fight against organized crime (including drugs, corruption, and money laundering). In particular, we organize joint training exercises and our military experts exchange views to develop capabilities and interoperability.
Regionally, this year the UK has committed more than £163 million (124 billion FCFA) in bilateral development and humanitarian aid to the Sahel, and through initiatives such as the Sahel Regional Fund, we are helping communities become more resilient to crises.
To strengthen regional security, we are, for example, providing training to special forces in Mauritania (the next stop on my visit) to build local capacity, foster regional cooperation and improve the ability to effectively combat terrorist threats.
We also welcome the recent agreements between ECOWAS and the Alliance of Sahel States (ESA) to preserve freedom of movement and trade. These regional partnerships maintain the strong tradition of cooperation in West Africa and bring significant benefits to the region's citizens.
Through these efforts, the UK remains committed to supporting inclusive growth, stability and prosperity across the Sahel.
Commentaires (28)
Ministre britannique pour l'Afrique c'c'est quoi ce charabia
L'afrique noire doit se préparer à faire face a une nouvelle recolonisation des européens
C'est l'ambassadeur de LGBT, j'espère que c'est pas une des conditions pour que le FMI accepte de financer le Sénégal
Est-ce qu'ils ont un Ministre pour l'Asie ? Ou pour l'Amérique ? Il faut que ce paternalisme cesse ! Les dirigeants africains doivent arrêter de faire passer ce continent pour un mendient facilement exploitable. Ministre pour l'Afrique mon cul ouais !
Après "chef oui chef "devant Macron, le nouveau régime est devenu fréquentable.
Vous connaissez Lord Collins ?
Un homo qui défend les droits mondiaux des LGBT et qui fait la promotion des droits des LGBT à travers le monde.
Et alors! Tu es qui pour juger.surement tu fais des choses pires ce que font les LGBT.la manière dont il vie ne nous intéresse pas mais ce qu'il nous sert.
ministre britannique pour reconquérir l’Afrique ! Il a aussi félicité les pays de l'AES. Qui vivra verra
Croire que ses gens la vont nous aider c est ce tromper lourdement ils ne l on jamais fait et ne le fetons jamais
Un grand défenseur des causes Lgbt qui nous informe que nos souverainistes sont plus soumis au FMI et à la France que le régime de Macky ? Effarant....
Ce ministre parle de transparence au Sénégal avec ce régime. Pendant 5 milliards ont été distribués aux casseurs dans le pèle mêle. Les chiffres du pétrole et gaz sont cachés aux Sénégalais.
Le Sénégal est mal barré si ce sont sux homosexuels qu'on ouvre les portes. Attention Sénégal attention !
"Les chiffres du pétrole et gaz sont cachés aux Sénégalais" Kuluna gni meun guén doul
Ce "gars" à un mari
Une bonne coopération
Et il a était clair en disant que: " l'approche repose sur le partenariat et non sur le paternalisme ". Mais vous aimez tellement critiquer que finalement vous êtes aveugle
Je suis Kuluna pur et dur, donc je décrete que le Lord Collins, ministre britannique pour l’Afrique, viens encore démentir Sonko. La preuve, il n'a pas parlé de dette cachée mais de transparence. Pastef fenn rek. Vous n'avez pas besoin de lire l'article, de toutz façon il a démenti Sonko. Macky Sall n'a jamais volé ni détourné l'argent du pays...
Vas voir le profil du gars a ta place damey nopi ce gars limouy defendre ak nos idéologie bokoul diambar
magui sok ragal nak
j ai peur pour mon pays nak magui soguey tite
Félicitations au journaliste intervieweur.
De très bonnes questions qui démontrent une très bonne préparation
Ce qui est aberrant c'est que ce sont nos souverainistes qui sont subitement devenus des griots des états européens.
Ces aventuriers incultes sont en train de ravaler toutes leurs vomissures.
Nous prions pour les élus qui honorent DIEU plutôt que Satan et qui s'engagent à faire passer rapidement la loi pour la criminalisation de l'homosexualité au Sénégal.
Rappelez à ce ministre lobbyiste du Royaume-Uni que le monde est en pleine mutation et que les strategies malveillantes, les manipulations sournoises ne passeront pas.
Transparence ou programme Fmi, c'est le gaz qui les intéresse pas autre chose.
La maison des nations unies qu'à dit yacine fall hier dans son point de presse ,puisque les journalistes sont aux abonnés absents, ils disent jamais l'essentiel
Nous sommes fiers d’être le premier investisseur énergétique au Sénégal.................ah ah ah..................marius en pls
le bled est british !!
On attend le communiqué du sacrifié porte parole de la secte APR qui nous dirait sûrement que: "L'APR se félicite que le ministre anglais, L. Collins, sooutienne la transparence sans croire au mensonge de la dette cachée inventée par le duo Sonko - Diomaye ". Entendez: "puisqu'il n'a pas prononcé les mêmes mots que Sonko, on peut toujours faire croire qu'il ne dit pas la même; il suffit de faire semblant de ne pas comprendre le français et, pire, l'anglais ". La réponse à l'APR, c'est comme on aime dire dans l'armée: "Si tu veux jouer au con, alors nous serons deux ".
Le Sénégal en chute libre dans sur tous les plans
Est ce que l'afrique a un ministre pour l'europe ou pour l'amerique? arreter ces connnorie là!!!
Venez tous les aider, pastef kou lène walou niou dieul. Projet douli néne et ils tous nuls en plus ces gougnafiers pastéfiens et leur chef de menteur hors paire.
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C’est un homosexuel international
C'est vraiment une provocation diplomatique sachant que l'homosexualité est criminalisée au Sénégal ou du moins n'est pas tolérable ! Mais que pouvons nous dire si les Africains en Europe se comportent comme des homosexuels pour s'intégrer et avoir des papiers ! Ils ont vendu leur âme au Diable 😈 ! De gambiens, des guinées... J'en passe ! En face de ma chambre il y'a un guinées qui " est la femme des autres" ils se le passent comme une " pute" ! Il est dégoûtant !
Je ne suis pas homophobe! Mais ils où elles sont soulant et stressant ? Know your self and be who are but respect others in Thiers rights !
Sant Serigne Touba rek ! Sant Serigne Touba rek ! Sant Serigne Touba rek ! Mane kene feukouma yobalé guir alalou adouna !
Dieureudieuf Serigne Mountakha Mbacké !
Interview interessante
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