Senegal is taking a new step in its quest for transparency and good governance of natural resources. The National Committee of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (CN-ITIE) has announced the availability of the register of beneficial owners of companies operating in the extractive sector.

This major step forward stems from the adoption of Decree No. 2025-1354 of August 27, 2025, which amends the 2020 Decree on the register of beneficial owners. The text now provides free and public access to crucial information on the beneficial owners of mining, oil, and gas companies, thus breaking with the restrictions of the previous system.

"Senegal confirms its commitment to ensuring open and responsible governance of its natural resources, in accordance with the commitments of President Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye," CN-ITIE emphasizes in its press release.

A reform in the service of transparency

The new decree repeals the requirement to “provide a legitimate interest” to access data, a condition that previously limited the right to information. From now on, any citizen can freely access key information such as the identity of reporting companies; the names, surnames, professions, positions, nationalities, and countries of residence of beneficial owners; the level and terms of participation in companies; and the date of acquisition of beneficial ownership.

This opening meets the EITI 2023 standards and international standards of transparency in the management of natural resources.

A tool against corruption and for good governance

The public register is an essential tool for strengthening the fight against corruption, money laundering, tax evasion and illicit financial flows. It also aims to increase confidence in the financial system and promote fair competition between companies in the extractive sector.

Beyond its institutional impact, this unprecedented system will allow for greater citizen participation and increased control by the media and civil society.

A symbol of renewed commitment

For CN-ITIE, this reform symbolizes a historic turning point in the governance of the country's natural resources. It will help reduce revenue losses, strengthen trust between the state and its partners, and consolidate equitable and responsible management of the national heritage.

The EITI National Committee invites all stakeholders – public authorities, companies, civil society organizations and citizens – to take ownership of this new tool for transparency and accountability.