Senegal is reshaping its digital transformation agenda around sovereign cloud infrastructure and artificial intelligence as the government seeks to turn its technology plans into projects with a direct impact on public services.
The priorities form part of the New Deal Technologique, Senegal’s national digital strategy covering areas including digital infrastructure, e-government, innovation, cybersecurity and technology skills. The programme consists of 12 major programmes and 50 priority projects, with estimated funding requirements of CFA1.105 trillion, around US$2 billion, between 2025 and 2034.
A major focus is the development of sovereign cloud infrastructure that can host sensitive government information within systems subject to greater national oversight. The approach would give Senegal stronger control over how public-sector data is stored, accessed and protected.
The emphasis on sovereignty comes as governments across Africa increasingly examine their dependence on foreign technology providers and overseas infrastructure. For Senegal, maintaining greater control over critical digital systems is being positioned as an important part of strengthening national cybersecurity and protecting government information.
Artificial intelligence is another central component of the strategy. Senegal intends to explore practical applications of AI across sectors such as healthcare, education and public administration.
Government institutions could use AI to streamline administrative processes, improve interactions with citizens and reduce the time and resources required to deliver public services. The strategy therefore places AI within the wider objective of making government more efficient rather than treating it solely as an emerging technology investment.
The digital programme also incorporates cybersecurity, digital identity and the continued modernisation of government services. Authorities are expected to assess projects according to factors such as feasibility, available financing and their potential to deliver measurable results.
This approach is intended to place greater emphasis on implementation and outcomes as Senegal progresses with its digital agenda. Rather than measuring progress simply by the number of initiatives announced, the government is seeking to establish clearer links between technology investment and improvements experienced by citizens and businesses.
Developing local expertise will also be important. Senegal’s plans include strengthening capabilities in cloud computing, cybersecurity and AI, recognising that infrastructure alone will not guarantee technological independence.
Building a domestic skills base could reduce reliance on external expertise and help Senegal manage and develop its own digital infrastructure over the longer term.
The government’s broader challenge will be to align investment in infrastructure with regulation, skills development and widespread adoption. If those elements progress together, the New Deal Technologique could provide the foundation for a more nationally controlled digital ecosystem and a greater role for AI in public-service delivery.