The semi-annual report of the National Committee of the Initiative for Transparency in the Extractive Industries (CN-ITIE) highlights the significant contribution of the extractive sector to the Senegalese economy during the first half of 2024. Indeed, the revenues generated reached 236.59 billion CFA francs, or about 391.49 million US dollars, including 225.49 billion fed the state budget. These figures include social and environmental payments made by companies in the sector.
In this report, which we have consulted in our colleagues from South Daily, it is specified that the mining sector mainly bears this performance, contributing to 187.35 billion FCFA, which represents 79.19 % of total income. This domination is mainly explained by the production of gold, which generated 154.46 billion FCFA for 106,579 ounces Troy, and by cement, with a production of 2,527,640 tonnes valued at 120.56 billion FCFA.
The hydrocarbons follow with notable growth, accumulating 45.79 billion FCFA, corresponding to 19.36 % of global income. This increase mainly stems from exceptional contributions from Wooddid Energy Senegal, valued at 24.75 billion FCFA, to cover customs audits and import rights.
South daily also reports that exports from the extractive sector have reached 468.42 billion FCFA, dominant phosphoric acid with 140.72 billion FCFA for 242,468 tonnes. Gold and cement have also continued their strong presence in international markets.
In addition to economic performance, the extractive sector is distinguished by its positive social impact. Companies in the sector have allocated FCFA 2.57 billion to social and environmental initiatives. Sabodala Gold Operations positions itself in the lead in the mining sector by its investments in community infrastructure. Education, receiving more than 40 % of social payments, remains a priority.
The report finally highlights the local impact via purchases made from Senegalese suppliers. Out of a total of transactions of 862.82 billion FCFA, 39.64 % concerned local businesses, stressing the importance of this sector for the country’s economy.
Through this document, which we have traveled at Sud Quotidien, the CN-Itie reaffirms its commitment to promote transparency and better governance in the exploitation of natural resources in Senegal, ensuring that they benefit the entire population.
