Sénégal-Mali transporters seek smoother border crossings between Dakar and Bamako

The bustling trade corridor linking Dakar and Bamako is facing mounting congestion challenges. At the heart of the issue lies Moussala, where a 15-kilometre queue of trucks stretches toward the Mali border, leaving drivers stranded and businesses struggling to meet delivery deadlines.

Expanding trade strains infrastructure

According to Daouda Singui Sarr, director of promotion and assistance at Cosec, Senegal’s national shippers’ council, the delays are causing ripple effects across the supply chain. « The transit times are ballooning, and every added hour translates into higher costs for transporters, » he explained. « With the rainy season in full swing, drivers also face harsh conditions without proper facilities. »

The surge in traffic isn’t surprising. The Dakar-Bamako route has become a lifeline for West African commerce, particularly with the rapid growth of mining activities in the region. To address the bottleneck, authorities have already taken steps at Kidira, where a 15-hectare truck park has been developed. Now, attention is turning to Moussala, where similar solutions are under consideration.

Collaboration key to easing congestion

Cosec is urging customs and border police to adopt a proactive approach, citing their successful deployment of additional staff at Kidira. « Why not replicate the modern parking initiative here? » Singui Sarr questioned. The call for action comes as urgent measures are expected to be rolled out in the coming weeks, in close coordination with local officials.

As trade volumes continue to rise, the need for sustainable infrastructure upgrades has never been clearer. For now, transporters remain hopeful that coordinated efforts will restore smoother passage along this critical regional artery.