Senegal is on a fast track to boost its economy to create employment opportunities for nearly 100,000 people. What that weighs heavy with the country is the sluggishness of the economy and consequent drop-in employment opportunities.
Formalization of the economy, job creation and support for financial inclusion are the three pillars that the Senegal government is working on. Coupled with this, the government is prioritising development of entrepreneurship, particularly in the tiny, small and medium sectors, which can take the pressure off the unemployment in the country. Ease of doing business is the buzzword with the government. President Macky Sall allows the creation of SMEs in 48 hours and ultimately aims to train 100,000 entrepreneurs. The entrepreneurship development plan, which can not only create more employment but also reduce the number of people aspiring for regular jobs is targeted at women and young people under 40.