The Dakar-Bamako corridor remains a vital route for trade between the two neighbouring countries.
The visit of Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye to Mali, on Thursday 30 May, is of particular importance in strengthening trade and diplomatic relations between the two countries. A number of issues aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation will be at the centre of discussions.
Trade between Senegal and Mali is of vital importance to both nations.
This is illustrated by Senegal’s recent announcement that it needs 250,000 sheep for the upcoming Eidhul Adha (Tabaski) feast. Mali, as a major supplier of sheep, has promised to meet this demand, thereby strengthening bilateral economic ties.
Trade relations between the two countries are already strong, with Mali ranking first among Senegal’s African clients. In 2022, Senegal’s sales to Africa totalled 1,404.5 billion CFA francs, of which 50.5 percent went to Mali.
This stable trade partnership is an essential pillar of regional economic cooperation.
Security cooperation between the two countries has also evolved over the years. Since 2013, Senegal has sent troops to Mali as part of peacekeeping missions, both with an African mission and with MINUSMA.
This security and humanitarian contribution bears witness to Senegal’s solidarity and commitment to regional stability and security.
The Dakar-Bamako corridor remains a vital route for trade between the two countries. Discussions will be held to overcome logistical, economic and security challenges in order to ensure fluid and efficient connectivity between Dakar and Bamako, thereby promoting trade and the economic development of both nations. In 2020, goods
traffic on the Dakar-Bamako corridor totalled more than 2.7 million tonnes, despite the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Although the movement of people and goods is generally satisfactory, occasional difficulties persist on the corridor.
Senegal and Mali are also members of the Organisation for the Development of the Senegal River, (OMVS), a regional organisation that aims to promote the economic and social development of member countries through the shared management of the Senegal River’s water resources. This cooperation within the OMVS strengthens the links between the two countries in the field of sustainable development and natural resource management.
