Senegalese PM announces second phase of measures to reduce cost of living

Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko (at the podium and on the screens) speaks in front of the National Assembly in Dakar, Senegal, on Feb. 21, 2025. Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko announced on Friday, in front of the National Assembly, a second phase of measures to reduce the cost of living, following the first phase implemented in last June. (Photo by Papa Demba Gueye/Xinhua)

DAKAR, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko announced on Friday, in front of the National Assembly, a second phase of measures to reduce the cost of living, following the first phase implemented in last June.

"Very soon, the second phase of measures to reduce the cost of living will be introduced. The Head of State will announce this price reduction to the Senegalese people," he said during the parliamentary session on "Government Current Affairs Questions," which focused on "the surge in prices and the removal of subsidies following the publication of the Court of Auditors' report."

The Senegalese head of government assured that this time, the price reductions "will be implemented calmly, in collaboration with national partners, as well as at the international level through reductions along the supply chain."

He highlighted the "considerable efforts" made by his government to lower the prices of essential goods, emphasizing that "despite a challenging context and the inheritance of a struggling country, President of the Republic Bassirou Diomaye Faye has undertaken measures to reduce the cost of living by engaging in discussions with various production sectors."

"The State has also made significant concessions by waiving taxes on several products, which otherwise would have helped address other pressing needs," he added.

Regarding subsidies, the Senegalese prime minister clarified: "We have stated that subsidies on certain products can no longer solely benefit the wealthiest individuals." He continued that "I want to make it clear that the most vulnerable will continue to benefit from state subsidies on electricity, petroleum products, and other essential goods." ■

Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko (Front) speaks in front of the National Assembly in Dakar, Senegal, on Feb. 21, 2025. Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko announced on Friday, in front of the National Assembly, a second phase of measures to reduce the cost of living, following the first phase implemented in last June. (Photo by Papa Demba Gueye/Xinhua)