Senegal: A strategic partnership to fight corruption in the environmental sector

The Ministry of Environment and Ecological Transition and the National Office for the Fight Against Fraud and Corruption (OFNAC) have officially launched a strategic partnership to strengthen efforts against corruption in the management of natural resources.

This initiative was formalized on Tuesday in Dakar through the signing of a joint declaration between Minister Daouda Ngom and OFNAC President Serigne Bassirou Guèye, with the presence of key partners, including GIZ, a German cooperation agency committed to good governance.

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This declaration follows a workshop held in January, which focused on mapping vulnerabilities to corruption in the environmental sector. The goal was to identify existing weaknesses and propose reforms to ensure a more transparent and responsible management of natural resources.

As part of this partnership, several measures have been announced. A monitoring committee will be established to oversee the implementation of recommendations from the workshop. Additionally, a manual of administrative, accounting, and financial procedures will be developed to regulate the management of ministry services.

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Moreover, the regulation of the carbon market and the updating of the classified establishments register are among the key priorities. Digitizing administrative procedures, particularly for obtaining permits for forest product harvesting and professional licenses for operators, is also planned to reduce the risks of corruption.

Minister Daouda Ngom emphasized the need for full commitment from all ministry staff to ensure transparency and strengthen public trust. “We must ensure that every initiative taken as part of this reform translates into tangible actions,” he stated.

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For his part, Serigne Bassirou Guèye highlighted the importance of this collaboration in preserving Senegal’s natural heritage. “Fighting corruption in the environmental sector means protecting our forests, waters, and lands. This is a responsibility we owe to our citizens and future generations,” he declared.

This initiative marks a significant step toward more ethical and effective governance in the environmental sector, reinforcing the credibility of public institutions while ensuring better protection of the country’s natural resources.