Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has issued a firm directive to all relevant ministers, instructing them to implement every necessary provision to mitigate flood risks before the onset of the next rainy season.
During a recent Council of Ministers meeting, the head of government laid out stringent guidelines aimed at enhancing the nation’s preparedness for the challenges associated with the annual rainy period. Government spokesperson Marie Rose Faye confirmed that a series of immediate and critical measures are to be put into effect without delay.
The Prime Minister particularly emphasized the strategic pre-positioning of intervention resources. He also called for the organization of an inter-ministerial simulation exercise, scheduled before June 15, 2026. This crucial drill will serve to rigorously test the responsiveness and capacity of state services in the face of potential natural disasters.
Furthermore, the communiqué from the Council of Ministers highlighted ongoing preparatory efforts by the government. These include the thorough clearing of water evacuation networks, detailed inspections of drainage infrastructure, the deployment of essential pumping equipment, and the development of robust emergency action plans specifically tailored for areas identified as highly susceptible to flooding.
Recognizing the multi-faceted nature of flood mitigation, Ousmane Sonko urged all government agencies to foster seamless collaboration. This collective effort will be centrally coordinated by the Ministry of Hydraulics and Sanitation, with critical support from the Ministry of Interior, particularly concerning civil protection protocols and comprehensive crisis management strategies.
