Senegal

Luxembourg Development Cooperation with Senegal began in 1990 with the rehabilitation and expansion of healthcare infrastructure at Saint-Louis Hospital. This project marked the start of a relationship that has since grown and strengthened over the decades. In 1998, the two countries signed a general cooperation agreement, and in 2005, LuxDev established a representative office in Dakar. Four successive generations of Indicative Cooperation Programmes (ICPs) have set the partnership’s priorities and guided its implementation.

Over the years, cooperation has gradually diversified, evolving from a primarily sector-based approach to one that brings together a wide range of stakeholders and partners. Alongside its traditional areas of health, vocational training, access to drinking water and sanitation, it now encompasses private sector development, scientific research, higher education and innovation.

Within this framework, LuxDev supports Senegalese partners in designing and implementing initiatives rooted in local ownership, capacity building and the pursuit of sustainable solutions, in line with national priorities.

Senegal faces significant challenges in employment, economic development and harnessing its scientific and human potential.

In Senegal, LuxDev is helping drive new approaches to development by bringing together public institutions, businesses, universities and the scientific community around complementary projects.

Particular emphasis is placed on helping young people access decent work, with support spanning the entire pathway from career guidance and training to employment and self-employment. Gender equality, inclusion and sustainable development are integrated throughout these interventions.

LuxDev also promotes private sector engagement by supporting partnerships that encourage entrepreneurship, innovation and the use of local knowledge. In parallel, the Agency supports scientific and academic cooperation, as well as applied research, to advance local development.

In the health sector, LuxDev supports the implementation of a subregional programme in West Africa aimed at improving the health of vulnerable populations and those facing discrimination. The programme strengthens their access to integrated, quality services for the prevention and management of HIV and associated conditions.

Finally, the Agency supports civil society organisations in tackling hate speech and disinformation, while strengthening citizen participation in rural areas.