• Senegal to launch national data interoperability platform in December
• First phase targets social aid, transparency, and admin efficiency
• Part of digital reforms under Senegal 2050 Agenda, New Tech Deal

Senegal plans to launch the first phase of its national data interoperability platform in December. The project, initiated by the government in April, aims to streamline and secure the exchange of information among ministries, public agencies, and private entities.

According to the Coordination Committee, which met on Tuesday to assess the project's progress, the platform will initially be used to accelerate the payment of social assistance to vulnerable families, enhance transparency in public management, and simplify administrative procedures for citizens and businesses.

"Interoperability is not just a technical innovation; it's a lever to modernize governance and stimulate innovation in the digital ecosystem," the Ministry of Communications, Telecommunications, and Digital Economy stated.

The project is a key component of the country’s New Technology Deal and the Senegal 2050 Agenda, which aims to modernize the administration, optimize public resources, and position the country as a regional digital hub. In recent years, Dakar has pursued several reforms to digitize public services, including the Senegal Services platform and the gradual dematerialization of administrative procedures.

With an internet penetration rate estimated at 70% as of January 2025 and widespread adoption of mobile money, the new platform could transform the user experience and build greater trust in digital administration. It is also expected to create new opportunities for local startups by providing secure and standardized access to public data.

Samira Njoya