Senegal government urges flood prevention measures ahead of rainy season

DAKAR — The Prime Minister of Senegal has directed relevant ministers to implement urgent measures to mitigate flood risks before the upcoming rainy season. During the latest Council of Ministers meeting, clear directives were issued to ensure comprehensive preparations are in place.

Strategic instructions for flood preparedness

Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko emphasized the critical need for immediate action, including the updating and validation of municipal emergency plans. He also stressed the importance of verifying the functionality of early warning systems and communication channels to ensure rapid response in case of flooding.

Inter-ministerial coordination and simulation exercises

Sonko further instructed ministries to prioritize the pre-positioning of intervention resources and to conduct a joint simulation exercise no later than June 15, 2026. This inter-ministerial coordination is essential to enhance preparedness and response efficiency.

The Prime Minister commended ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Hydraulics and Sanitation, along with other state services, for their proactive measures. These include clearing drainage networks, inspecting water control structures, positioning pumps, and developing emergency response plans. His directives reinforce the government’s commitment to safeguarding communities from flood-related disasters.

Given the cross-sectoral nature of flood prevention, Sonko called for seamless collaboration among all state agencies. The Ministry of Hydraulics and Sanitation will lead these efforts, with the Ministry of the Interior supporting civil protection and crisis management components.