Long queues stretching nearly 15 kilometers at the Senegal-Mali border near Moussala are causing significant delays for truck drivers transporting goods between Dakar and Bamako. The bottleneck has become a growing concern for the transport sector, which is now calling for urgent solutions to restore fluidity along this critical trade corridor.
Overloaded routes and mounting costs
Daouda Singui Sarr, director of promotion and assistance at the Council of Senegalese Shippers (Cosec), highlights the challenges faced by hauliers. «The transit delays are extending, and these delays translate into additional costs for transporters. Drivers also endure harsh conditions, especially during the rainy season, with limited access to basic amenities,» he explains.
Expanding infrastructure to ease pressure
As cross-border trade intensifies—fueled by booming mining activities—the pressure on existing infrastructure has become unsustainable. In response, authorities have already initiated measures at Kidira, where a 15-hectare truck parking facility has been developed. Now, discussions are underway to replicate this model at Moussala, where congestion remains a persistent issue.
«Customs and border police have already reinforced staffing to expedite truck clearances. Why not expand the modern parking project from Kidira to Moussala?» Sarr suggests.
Coordinated action ahead
With trade flows between Senegal and Mali showing no signs of slowing, local authorities are preparing to implement emergency measures in the coming weeks. These steps aim to streamline border operations and alleviate the strain on drivers navigating this vital economic artery.
