Population pressure in Senegal, where the population is projected to reach approximately 18.6 million by 2025, is placing significant strain on water availability and distribution. Urban areas concentrate nearly 45% of the population, generating increasing demand for drinking water and sanitation services. This rapid urbanization underscores the need to modernize existing, often outdated, infrastructure to prevent supply disruptions and ensure access for households and businesses.

The decline in groundwater levels is a major concern. According to the Water Resources Directorate, some regions, such as Thiès and Kaolack, are experiencing a decrease in groundwater levels. This deterioration makes significant investments in drilling, artificial aquifer recharge, and hydrological monitoring essential.

Water governance is another key challenge. The multitude of public and private actors, from local structures to national operators, sometimes leads to overlapping responsibilities and inefficiencies. The implementation of fair pricing mechanisms and the monitoring of industrial and agricultural water use remain insufficient, complicating budget planning and resource allocation.

Finally, the regional dimension is essential, as several river basins, such as the Senegal and Casamance, flow through multiple countries. Cross-border cooperation and the sharing of hydrological data are indispensable for anticipating conflicts over water use and securing supplies. Investments in shared infrastructure and the coordination of national policies could generate economies of scale and strengthen resilience to climate hazards.