Senegal Bets on Railway Modernisation to Drive Tourism & Regional Integration

Senegal’s railway system is experiencing a renaissance, heralding a new era for tourism and creating significant opportunities for travel agents across Africa. 

According to the government, on July 5, an ambitious modernisation programme, centred on the new Train Express Régional (TER) and the revitalisation of the historic Dakar-Bamako line, is set to transform the nation’s transport landscape.

At the forefront of this transformation is the TER, West Africa’s first electrified railway, which has already demonstrated its success by carrying over 21 million passengers since its 2021 launch. Connectivity is poised for a major boost in the latter half of 2025 with the opening of the system’s Phase 2 extension, which will provide a seamless link between Blaise Diagne International Airport (AIBD) and downtown Dakar. Future expansions aim to connect outlying regions, integrating them with urban transport networks and stimulating widespread economic development. 

Concurrently, the historic metre-gauge Dakar-Bamako line, which dates to the early 20th century, is being revived. The initial phase will upgrade the Dakar-Tambacounda segment with modern signalling systems and secured crossings, with the eventual goal of reconnecting to Mali, a move that highlights the project’s regional importance for fostering cross-border trade and tourism.

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However, this modernisation addresses decades of challenges. The existing century-old rail network suffers from significant degradation and lacks modern safety features. Environmental factors like heavy rains and sand encroachment further complicate operations. The TER, with its digital controls, secure infrastructure, and comprehensive CCTV surveillance, stands in stark contrast to the vulnerabilities of the older system.

Pape Ahmeth Diop, Director of Vigilance Technologie Services (VTS) and a leading railway safety expert, stresses that safety is the cornerstone of this transformation. Having been instrumental in implementing the TER’s Safety Management System, Diop advocates for a comprehensive reform strategy. His approach includes establishing an independent railway safety authority aligned with international standards and a phased implementation of new technologies like ERTMS signalling and AI-powered maintenance tools to minimise disruption.

Crucially, Diop’s vision extends beyond technology to include human and community factors. He emphasises the need for robust training programmes to equip personnel with the skills to manage modern systems. Furthermore, community engagement is central to ensuring long-term safety and success. This involves public awareness campaigns, establishing community watch groups to monitor high-risk areas, and redesigning level crossings in collaboration with local stakeholders. By creating local employment opportunities and maintaining dialogue with community leaders, the railway projects can ensure they deliver tangible benefits to the areas they serve.

With its strategic location, Senegal is positioned to become a regional rail hub, with potential corridors extending to neighbouring countries. The success of this vision depends on establishing standardised safety frameworks and fostering cross-border cooperation. In this, Senegal’s leadership sets a powerful precedent for West Africa, demonstrating the transformative potential of safe, efficient rail networks.

This railway revitalisation offers a wealth of opportunities for African travel agents. The TER’s expansion and the Dakar-Bamako line’s rehabilitation will dramatically improve access to key tourist destinations, create novel travel routes, and elevate the overall visitor experience. The project’s strong focus on safety and sustainability also aligns with global travel trends, appealing to a growing market of conscientious travellers.

Travel agents can capitalise on these developments by designing innovative itineraries that feature these rail journeys. The TER offers efficient travel around Dakar and its vibrant surroundings, while the revived Dakar-Bamako line promises a unique cultural and historical adventure. By bundling rail travel with other tourism products, such as wildlife safaris, cultural tours, and beach holidays, agents can craft compelling packages for a diverse clientele.

Ultimately, Senegal’s railway transformation is more than an infrastructure upgrade; it is a catalyst for tourism growth and sustainable economic development. By embracing this evolution, African travel agents can unlock new revenue streams, enrich their product offerings, and play a vital role in the growth of the region’s tourism industry.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Answers

What are the key railway projects driving tourism in Senegal?

Senegal is undertaking two major projects: the Train Express Régional (TER), a modern electrified railway connecting Dakar with its suburbs and the international airport, and the revitalisation of the historic Dakar-Bamako line, which will improve access to the country’s interior and eventually reconnect with Mali.

How can travel agents benefit from Senegal’s new railways?

Travel agents can benefit by:

• Creating new itineraries: Combine efficient city travel on the TER with historical journeys on the Dakar-Bamako line.
• Enhancing accessibility: Offer clients seamless travel from Blaise Diagne International Airport (AIBD) to Dakar’s city centre.
• Developing unique packages: Bundle rail journeys with safaris, cultural tours, and beach holidays.
• Attracting new clients: Appeal to sustainability-focused travellers by promoting modern, efficient rail transport.

When will the direct train to Dakar’s international airport be operational?

The TER’s Phase 2 extension connecting Dakar to Blaise Diagne International Airport (AIBD) is scheduled to open in the latter half of 2025.

What makes these new railway projects different from the old system?

The modernisation programme addresses the key failures of the old network. Unlike the degraded, century-old tracks, the new and upgraded lines incorporate modern safety standards, including digital control centres, advanced signalling systems (ERTMS), secured level crossings, and comprehensive surveillance, ensuring a safer and more reliable experience.

What kind of new travel experiences will these railways enable?

The railways will enable diverse travel experiences. The TER allows for fast and easy exploration of Dakar and its coastal surroundings. The revitalised Dakar-Bamako line offers a unique opportunity for slow travel, allowing tourists to experience the rich culture and history of Senegal’s inland regions on a journey towards the historic town of Tambacounda and beyond.