Senegal‘s Future: A Territories-First Approach
“We are in the era of Jub Jubel Jubanti,” declared newly elected deputy Maguette Séne, addressing the nation live on RTS 1. The MP called for a governance model that places territories firmly at the center of public policy. Séne, head of the coalition list The March of the Territories/Andu Nawlé, has quickly emerged as a voice for local aspirations, emphasizing the urgent need to rethink current policies that, in his view, are insufficient to correct regional imbalances.
“The territories must become the basis of the territorialization of public policies,” he stated, outlining a five-pronged strategic approach during his compelling speech.
Reimagining Decentralization: Empowering Local Potential
Séne stressed the limitations of current decentralization mechanisms, arguing that they are not enough to reduce territorial inequalities. A renewed approach is essential, he emphasized, to guarantee harmonious development across all regions.
hindering economic growth and opportunity. At the core of Séne’s vision is the imperative to protect and empower local elected officials by ensuring they have the resources and support required to effectively fulfill their missions.
Sustainable Development: Cultivating Local Strengths
Calling for industrialization based on local specificities, Séne advocated for a model that promotes natural resources and strengthens food sovereignty.
His vision extends beyond simply exploiting natural wealth; it focuses on sustainable development, where each territory can leverage its unique assets to achieve economic prosperity.
Learning from Success: Building a National Network of Best Practices
Séne emphasized the need for better documentation of successful local initiatives.
He believes that encouraging the sharing of knowledge and best practices across different regions is crucial.
This, coupled with fostering strong partnerships between local authorities and non-state actors, will ensure effective collaboration and innovation in development strategies.
Fair Financing: Leveling the Playing Field
A fair distribution of financial resources is vital to empower territories and give them the means to reach their full potential.
Séne’s vision is one of financial inclusion and equitable resource allocation,
ensuring that no territory is left behind in the pursuit of national development.
Beyond Political Divisions: A National Agenda for Territorial Development
For Séne, the issue transcends political boundaries.
The coalition The March of the Territories/Andu Nawlé advocates for an inclusive approach, where, as Séne emphasizes, “the superior interest of the territory takes precedence over all other considerations.” This commitment to bipartisanship underscores his belief that territorial development should be a shared national priority.
Séne also highlighted the importance of endogenous financing mechanisms, driving financial inclusion and encouraging the development of technologies adapted to local realities.
A Champion for the Territories
Séne is committed to transforming the National Assembly into a vibrant forum for the territories.
“Each territory must have the means for its development,” he insisted, outlining his ambition to direct public policies towards a more equitable and prosperous Senegal.
This declaration marks a pivotal moment in Senegal’s political landscape, with Séne positioning himself as a key player in a legislature set to be decisive for the future of the country’s territories.
MHC is assessing whether decentralization dating back to its first recognition as a policy measure has yielded positive social and economic results in the case of Senegal.
## Senegal’s Future: Decentralized and Vibrant?
**Host:**
Joining us today is Dr. Aminata Faye, a political analyst and expert on Senegal’s political landscape. Dr. Faye, newly elected deputy Maguette Séne has triggered quite a stir with his “territories-first” approach to governance. Can you shed some light on this new perspective?
**Dr. Faye:**
Certainly. Deputy Séne’s vision reflects a growing sentiment among Senegalese citizens, a desire for governance that truly addresses the unique challenges and opportunities faced by different regions. He’s rightfully pointing out that the current decentralization models, while a step forward, haven’t gone far enough in empowering local communities and bridging regional inequalities.
**Host:**
Séne talks about a five-pronged strategy. Could you elaborate on some key points?
**Dr. Faye:**
Absolutely. His plan emphasizes several critical areas. Firstly, reimagining decentralization by giving local officials more autonomy and resources. Secondly, promoting sustainable development tailored to each territory’s unique strengths, moving beyond just exploiting natural resources and focusing on long-term prosperity.
He also calls for establishing a national network to share best practices among localities, learning from successful initiatives across Senegal. he stresses the need to protect local elected officials and ensure they have the support structures necessary to fulfill their responsibilities.
**Host:**
This ”territories-first” approach resonates with some, but it’s also sparked debate. What are some of the concerns being raised?
**Dr. Faye:**
Critics argue that such a focus on regionalism could lead to fragmentation and weaken national unity. There are also concerns about the feasibility of effectively implementing these changes, particularly regarding financial resources and administrative capacity at the local level.
**Host:**
How does Séne’s vision align with Senegal’s existing political frameworks? Does it contradict current policies, or is it building upon them?
**Dr. Faye:**
It’s more about building upon existing frameworks. As seen in [[1](https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/0020852312455600)], Senegal has a history of decentralization efforts. Séne’s approach aims to strengthen and amplify these, pushing for a more comprehensive and locally-driven development model.
**Host:**
Dr. Faye, thank you for providing your analysis. It will be fascinating to see how Deputy Séne’s “territories-first” vision unfolds and shapes Senegal’s future.
**Dr. Faye:**
It’s certainly a conversation that will continue to evolve and hopefully contribute to a more equitable and prosperous Senegal for all.
