The framework for reflection and action on the labour market in Senegal (CRAFS) published a statement on Tuesday to take stock of the labour market situation in the country and formulate its recommendations regarding the reforms announced by the authorities. After having welcomed the political will shown by the current authorities, in particular the suspension of land operations on the coast and in the disputed areas, the CRAFS welcomed the reiterated commitment of the President of the Republic during the Council of Ministers of 18 June 2025 in favour of a consensual and inclusive land reform. The President of the CRAFS, Babacar Diop, however, expressed several concerns.. The organisation is particularly concerned about the announcements made by the Prime Minister in his Déclaration de politique générale (DPG) of 27 December 2024, referring to the creation of an Agence nationale des Domaines et du Foncier. According to the CRAFS, such centralisation could deprive the territorial collectivities of their prerogatives in matters of land management, in contradiction with the principle of decentralisation enshrined in Act III and the law on the national domain. The CRAFS also opposes the proposal of the Vice-President of the National Assembly, Amadou Ba, to suspend the powers of the local authorities in favour of a centralised management. In its position paper, updated in 2024 after extensive consultations with rural communities, the CRAFS reaffirms a vision of land based on social justice, sustainability and the recognition of traditional rights. Among its main proposals are: the refusal of the marchandisation and the systematic registration of land, the establishment of equitable partnerships with investors, a participatory land governance through inclusive village committees, a strictly supervised land mobility, the protection of common spaces and agricultural land, the recognition of Rights of women and young people “We invite the State to engage in a land reform built with and for local communities, in a spirit of transparency, co-construction and respect for food sovereignty”, declared Babacar Diop. The CRAFS is determined to accompany the State in order to guarantee an inclusive and sustainable public administration, an indispensable condition for preserving social peace and family farms in Senegal.
Foncier au Sénégal: the CRAFS welcomes the will to reform but is alert to the risks for decentralisation
