Tensions remain high in Senegal's scrap metal sector. On May 1st, Labor Day, Serigne Momar Sokhna, president of metal exporters and scrap metal cooperatives in Kaolack, launched a scathing attack, pointing the finger at administrative officials and denouncing a persistent blockage of his business.

In an accusatory statement, the businessman directly implicates Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba Ndaw, director of domestic trade, and division head Alioune Badara Ba, whom he holds responsible for the crisis shaking the sector. According to him, they are "behind the difficulties" encountered by stakeholders in the industry, particularly exporters.

But beyond the technical administration, Serigne Momar Sokhna doesn't spare the political authorities. He directly attacks the Minister of Commerce, Serigne Guèye Diop, whom he accuses of inaction in the face of a situation he considers critical. "Since 2024, with the renewal of our licenses, we have constantly appealed to him. But so far, no solution has been provided," he laments.

At the heart of their demands are two major points: the effective renewal of licenses and the reinstatement of a decree deemed more favorable to industry players. "We are not asking for any privileges. We simply want to work within a clear and stable framework," he insists, denouncing a deadlock that, according to him, has persisted since 2023.

The businessman also warns of the economic consequences of this crisis. He mentions job losses, halted investments, and even operators leaving for other countries. "Many have left Senegal to invest elsewhere. Meanwhile, we continue to pay taxes and fees without being able to fully conduct our business," he insists.

Faced with what he calls an "unacceptable situation," Serigne Momar Sokhna is appealing to the Head of State, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, for arbitration. He is also requesting the involvement of Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, as well as members of parliament and religious authorities, notably the caliphs general of Kaolack, Touba, Tivaouane, and Thiénaba.

Among the points of contention, he denounces a requirement he considers unrealistic: that of having a 5,000 m² warehouse to operate in the sector. "That doesn't exist anywhere. We can't prevent Senegalese people from working on such a site," he protests.

Presenting himself as a committed businessman, job creator, and tax compliant worker, Serigne Momar Sokhna says he is experiencing a form of marginalization he doesn't understand. "I am a Senegalese business owner. I contribute to the national economy. Today, I am being prevented from working. It's incomprehensible," he concludes, calling for a swift response from the authorities to defuse a crisis that threatens to escalate.