Senegal: The Ministry of Energy and AJTREPE strengthen transparency in the governance of extractive resources

The Ministry of Energy, Oil and Mines, in collaboration with the Association of Journalists for Transparency in Extractive Resources and the Preservation of the Environment (AJTREPE), organised a two-day workshop in Somone, bringing together journalists, authorities and stakeholders in the extractive sector. The aim was to promote transparency and access to information in the exploitation of Senegal's natural resources.

Inaugurated by the Minister of Energy, Oil and Mines, Birame Souleye Diop, the workshop marked a decisive step in strengthening dialogue between the media and public institutions. "The exploitation of natural resources must be transparent, in the exclusive interest of the Senegalese people", said the Minister, stressing the importance of "accessible, educational and reliable" information to dispel misunderstandings and suspicions.

The President of AJTREPE stressed the key role of journalists as credible intermediaries between citizens, public decision-makers and industry. He called for greater access to essential documents, such as contracts, environmental reports and production data, to ensure rigorous media coverage.

The first day, devoted to energy and hydrocarbons, provided an opportunity for direct exchanges between journalists and the heads of the structures under the Ministry's authority, in particular the PETROSEN Group, SENELEC, ASER, ANER and AEME. The presentations by the managing directors focused on the results, prospects and challenges of flagship projects such as Sangomar, GTA and Yakaar-Teranga.

Journalists raised crucial issues, including the impact of oil and gas projects on local communities, lower electricity prices, contract renegotiations and the management of public information. The clear and transparent answers given by the authorities, in accordance with the Minister's instructions, were hailed as an unprecedented accountability initiative.

The second day, devoted to mining and geology, was attended by the Directors General of Mines and Geology, SOMISEN, SGNS and MIFERSO. Discussions focused on investment opportunities, the environmental impact of mining activities, the price of cement, zircon mining and the accessibility of gold.

Minister Birame Souleye Diop also addressed cross-cutting issues such as rural electrification, the management of SENELEC and the renegotiation of contracts. He reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining open communication with the media to counter misinformation, and instructed his staff to remain available to respond to future questions.

AJTREPE made a number of recommendations, including the appointment of press focal points in technical agencies, greater openness of extractive companies to the media and capacity-building for journalists, particularly in the regions. The association's president also proposed the creation of an award for journalistic excellence to encourage professional and committed coverage of the sector.

The Minister welcomed these initiatives, recalling the efforts already undertaken, such as the regular publication of production reports from the Sangomar field and the recent export of the first cargo of liquefied natural gas from the GTA project.

The workshop was unanimously hailed as a high point for dialogue and collaboration. By bringing together the media, authorities and players in the sector, it laid the foundations for more inclusive, responsible and transparent governance of Senegal's extractive resources. The participants expressed their optimism that such initiatives, which are essential to strengthening public confidence in the management of the country's wealth, would be continued in the future.