Invited to the Seneweb Eco program this Sunday, May 3, public-private partnership (PPP) expert Lamine Lo stated that expertise is the main prerequisite for enabling Senegalese small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to access structuring PPP projects.

 

According to the CEO of Zaman Capital, the legal framework adopted by the Senegalese government in 2021 reflects a desire to involve the national private sector more in public-private partnership opportunities. However, he believes that SMEs must first and foremost possess the necessary technical skills to participate in these types of projects.

 

“The prerequisite is expertise. You can’t put an SME on a project where it would be penalized if it doesn’t perform,” he stated. He believes that know-how, methodology, and execution capabilities remain essential criteria in awarding projects.

 

The expert also mentioned a lack of communication surrounding the opportunities linked to public-private partnerships (PPPs). He deemed the dissemination of information to Senegalese SMEs insufficient and called on government agencies to strengthen awareness campaigns and the presentation of available projects. "Communication and awareness-raising are needed so that these private actors know that there are opportunities to seize," he stated.

 

Regarding funding, Lamine Lo believes that the difficulties can be mitigated through mechanisms put in place by the State and its partners. "The funding comes when the project demonstrates expertise, know-how, and a sound methodology," he added.

 

Regarding competition from multinationals, he stated that they will continue to be present in PPPs, while developing collaborations with local SMEs.