Road transport regulation in Senegal is entering a new phase. Faced with challenges related to safety, compliance with standards, and traffic flow, authorities are considering establishing a specific consultation framework. During discussions with stakeholders in the sector this Tuesday, the Secretary General of the Ministry of Land and Air Transport, El Hadji Abdoulaye Gueye, emphasized the need for a more structured approach to address the persistent concerns of transport operators.

Night transport, in particular, is a major source of concern. Caught between safety requirements and operational constraints, stakeholders are denouncing what they consider difficult driving conditions, notably due to the proliferation of checkpoints. While necessary to combat accidents and traffic violations, these checkpoints are sometimes perceived as a source of hassle by industry professionals. It should be noted that transport operators have requested a six-month suspension of the ban and a decision to be made after an evaluation.

A request that the government says requires further discussion. Another point of contention: weighing operations. Intended to protect road infrastructure and regulate loads, they nevertheless draw criticism regarding their organization and their impact on haulage companies' activities. Stakeholders are therefore calling for better harmonization of procedures and greater transparency in their implementation.

Towards the establishment of an ad hoc committee

To ease tensions and establish a constructive dialogue, the authorities are considering creating an ad hoc committee. This body would bring together the various stakeholders to find concerted solutions to the identified problems. "The objective is twofold: to strengthen road safety while protecting the interests of transport professionals. We are working towards a common goal," reiterated El Hadji Abdoulaye Gueye, emphasizing the need for shared responsibility between the State and industry players.