Senegal Mechanics Seek Formalization After roadside Decluttering, Advocate for Collaborative Solutions
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A wave of roadside decluttering operations in Senegal is receiving qualified support from the nation’s automotive artisans, who emphasize the need for consultation and a proactive approach to re-employment. While acknowledging the importance of order and public space maintenance, leaders within the sector are urging authorities to prioritize the livelihoods of displaced mechanics and invest in dedicated infrastructure for the industry.
The recent efforts to clear public roads of informal workshops are “a good thing, because a country must operate with rules that are rigorously applied and respected by everyone,” according to a leading voice within the Senegalese automotive community. However, this support is contingent on a more inclusive process. “We are for decluttering, but against evictions, especially when we know that the victims will find themselves in great social difficulties,” the source stated.
The Human Cost of Decluttering
The immediate impact of these operations has been critically important, with many mechanics – frequently enough heads of families – forced to seek alternative means of income. Reports indicate a ripple effect, as displaced workers transition into informal transportation roles, such as unlicensed taxi drivers (“clandos”) and motorcycle taxi transporters (“jarkartaman”). Others, facing limited options, have fallen into unemployment. “We don’t move a problem, we solve it,” a representative emphasized, highlighting the need for sustainable solutions rather than simply displacing the issue.
A Unified front: The Cnta‘s Proposal
Recognizing the scale of the challenge,various mechanic associations have united under the banner of the National Confederation of Automotive Technicians (Cnta). The Cnta is actively collaborating with town planning officials, craft services, and the Ministry of Employment and vocational Training to formalize the sector and secure dedicated land for workshops.
The confederation’s core proposal centers on integrating craft zones into all future Concerted Progress Zones (Zac). “Our objective is that wherever a Zac is created, a site dedicated to crafts will be provided, so that all craftsmen can have an adequate working environment,” the source explained. This proactive approach aims to prevent future displacement and ensure a stable operating environment for mechanics.
State Capacity and Available Land
Despite the ambitious scope of the plan, leaders express confidence in the state’s ability to deliver. “Yes, absolutely,” they affirmed when asked about the government’s capacity to re-employ displaced mechanics. “The lands falling under the national domain are vast.”
The Diamniadio development zone, specifically “La Zampa,” serves as a promising example. This zone already boasts fifty hectares equipped with garages and hangars – equivalent to twenty workshops – with an additional one hundred hectares earmarked for future development. Furthermore, the Cnta intends to work with local authorities to identify and repurpose additional land bases for modern garage facilities.
A Willingness to Contribute
Mechanics are prepared to contribute to the formal economy through taxation. “Of course, and we are ready to pay,” a representative stated.”We just need to formalize ourselves; what we are doing.” they point to missed opportunities in coastal development areas like Guédiawaye, Lac Rose, and Ouest Foire, where the needs of mechanics and other craftsmen were overlooked. “With the help of the State, we could have had industrial zones and craft parks in these sectors,” they lamented, emphasizing the potential for collaborative growth.
The call for collaboration is clear: by providing dedicated spaces and recognizing the value of the automotive artisan sector, Senegal can transform a challenge into an opportunity for economic development and social stability.
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