“Having listened carefully to the Prime Minister’s General Policy Statement, I would like to salute the vision and determination it embodies to place Senegal on an ambitious and promising development trajectory. Many of the points raised reflect a clear commitment to a better future for our country. That said, allow me, Mr Prime Minister, as well as all the members of your government, to share a critical reflection on the question of restoring visa reciprocity.
During its implementation under the aegis of our illustrious Minister of Culture, Mr. Youssou Ndour, this measure showed several limits:
High fees and administrative formalities have deterred many visitors, particularly Europeans, negatively impacting the tourism sector, essential to our economy.
Logistics infrastructure was not robust enough, leading to delays and frustration among potential travelers. This policy was seen as a brake on our country’s legendary hospitality, a central value of our cultural identity. These challenges led to a rapid abandonment of the measure, illustrating its negative consequences on the attractiveness of Senegal. Before any reintroduction, it is imperative to learn the lessons of this experience to reconcile national sovereignty and tourist dynamism.
Potential economic impacts of visa reciprocity
Red tape and costs could deter visitors from countries subject to these requirements, leading to:
A drop in the occupancy rate of hotels, particularly in seaside areas such as Saly and Cap Skirring, or cultural centers such as Saint-Louis and Gorée.
A decrease in restaurant revenues, particularly those geared toward an international clientele.
Tourism, a major source of foreign exchange, would be affected, jeopardizing the profitability of hotels and tourist complexes. Jobs in related sectors (hotels, restaurants, guides, transport) could decline, worsening unemployment. Small businesses and artisans, dependent on tourism charges, would also suffer losses.
Impact on investments and competitiveness
A tourist climate perceived as less welcoming could deter foreign investors, slowing the development of new tourism projects.
Senegal risks losing its attractiveness in the face of regional competitors such as Cape Verde or the Gambia, which offer simplified entry conditions.
Agriculture, which supplies restaurants, and transport (tourist guides, taxis), would suffer a reduction in demand, leading to loss of income for local stakeholders and a weakening of the rural and urban economy.
Proposals to minimize negative impacts
Simplification of visa procedures: Implementation of an electronic visa (e-visa) to facilitate and accelerate the process.
Specific bilateral agreements: Identification of strategic partnerships to exempt certain countries or simplify their procedures.
Promotion and attractiveness: Communication campaigns to strengthen the welcoming image of Senegal while promoting the new policies.
Visa reciprocity can meet sovereignty requirements, but its implementation must be considered to preserve economic vitality and the strategic role of tourism in national development. »
M. Cheikh SENE,
Economist
Email : [email protected]
