Maritime Security: Senegal allocates 200 Billion CFA Francs for the Acquisition of Three Patrol Vessels
Senegal is intensifying its efforts to strengthen maritime security. On Thursday, November 17, the country announced the allocation of 200 billion CFA francs for the acquisition of three offshore patrol vessels. The third Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) is expected to join the fleet by March 2024, in line with the contractual commitment of a 44-month timeline by the Piriou company.
The Minister of Armed Forces, Oumar Youm, emphasized the importance of this initiative as part of the significant investments undertaken by the State of Senegal, under the leadership of President Macky Sall, who is also the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.
Since assuming the presidency in 2012, President Sall has highlighted the need to make Senegal competitive while enhancing the security of the country, its citizens, and their property.
The Emerging Senegal Plan, focused on peace and security, played a key role in this initiative.
The minister pointed out that the budget of the Armed Forces has tripled since 2012, reaching over 313 billion in 2024.
This increase has allowed for the strengthening of personnel, modernization of equipment and infrastructure, and improvement of military conditions.
Vincent Faujour, President of the Piriou Group, highlighted the positive impact of the Senegal program on the group’s position as a major player in the construction of armed vessels.
He noted that this initiative opens up new prospects for the Piriou Group and for Kership, the industrial contractor for the program.
This financial allocation demonstrates Senegal’s sustained commitment to maritime security and enhances its ability to address the growing challenges in this strategic region.
Yann ETERNEL
