The transport sector in Senegal is set to undergo a transformation with the arrival of Casamance Transport, a new company which aims to modernize the national mobility network.
Through an investment of more than 21 billion CFA francs (around $35 million), the company plans to deploy a diversified vehicle fleet and build 42 operating stations by 2025.
A vision driven by the private sector
Behind this initiative, Moussa Gaye Coly, President and CEO of Casamance Transport, has a clear vision: to develop a multi-service company encompassing road, river and maritime transport. “The company aims to deploy a national network, with 42 operating stations and a fleet of vehicles renewed every eight years. This fleet will include 50 buses, 12 trucks of 12 to 13 tonnes, 50 minicars and 45 to 50 recovery vehicles”said Mr. Coly.
This major project benefits from solid financial and institutional support. CF Banque, a key player in financing, injected the majority of the funds, while the Agency for the Development and Supervision of Small and Medium Enterprises (Adepme) and the Land Transport Department provide technical and logistical support.
A start planned for March 2025
The first buses should start circulating no later than March 2025. At the same time, stations will be built at strategic points in order to effectively network the territory. These modern infrastructures will offer diversified services: catering spaces, connected ticket offices, air-conditioned waiting rooms and charging points for electric vehicles.
The Casamance Transport fleet is distinguished by cutting-edge equipment. The buses will be equipped with Wi-Fi, USB sockets, comfortable seats and a VIP area, a first in Senegal for a public transport service.
A sustainable and inclusive model
One of the innovative aspects of this project is based on the systematic renewal of the fleet every eight years. This approach is part of a perspective of sustainability and reduction of CO2 emissions. This project will favor local labor.
In addition to road transport, the company plans to gradually expand its activities to river and maritime transport, paving the way for a multimodal system capable of responding to mobility challenges throughout the country.
