The exploitation of the oil and gas deposits of Grande Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) and Sangomar places Senegal at a turning point. These resources can either become a lever of sustainable development or feed inequalities. To ensure that they benefit all, the country must adopt bold and inclusive policies. Senegal must promote the creation of development banks specialised in the financing of natural resources, relying on African capital and regional sovereign funds. Inspired by the model of the Africa Finance Corporation in Nigeria, these institutions would allow: A financial autonomy: to reduce dependence on foreign lenders and finance strategic infrastructures (refineries, pipelines, renewable energies). A strong local impact: to preserve a significant part of the value added in Africa. A support for development: to propose low-interest loans to boost the sector. This model would allow Senegal to avoid the trap of excessive debt and to strengthen its economic sovereignty in the context of Vision Senegal 2050. Three proven approaches could transform the governance of natural resources: A successful sovereign fund: like Norway or the United Arab Emirates, Senegal must go beyond a conservative management of oil revenues. It must invest in strategic projects such as:
Petrole Sénégalais: from extraction to self-sufficiency
