• Senegal signed new partnerships to turn major tech events into drivers of investment and job creation.

• The government aims to label over 500 tech startups and generate 150,000 direct jobs.

• Upcoming events include Dakar SLUSH’D, SIPEN, SALTIS, and NEXTEN Summit 2025.

 Senegal is stepping up efforts to strengthen its digital economy by leveraging major technology events to promote innovation, investment, and startup growth.

Minister of Communication, Telecommunications, and Digital Affairs Alioune Sall signed several partnership agreements on October 3 to transform these national tech gatherings into “engines of employment, innovation, and investment.”

The fourth quarter of 2025 will feature a series of high-profile events starting with Dakar SLUSH’D (October 9–10) — Africa’s first edition of the Helsinki-born global tech forum that connects investors, startups, and innovators.

It will be followed by SIPEN (October 16–17), organized by OPTIC, which brings together public and private sector actors to boost B2B markets and digital competitiveness. SALTIS (November 25–26) will focus on algorithms, cybersecurity, and the ethical implications of artificial intelligence, while NEXTEN Summit 2025 (December 3–5) will gather decision-makers around AI and blockchain as engines of African growth.

Alongside these national events, a Learning Expedition to Montreal (October 25–November 5) will allow a Senegalese delegation to explore Canada’s technology ecosystem, with a focus on women in digital innovation.

Senegal also plans to launch a “Digital Olympic Village” ahead of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, centered on youth engagement, e-sports, coding, and extended reality (XR) content.

These initiatives form part of the government’s New Technological Deal, aimed at enhancing national competitiveness by supporting startups, training youth, and integrating emerging technologies into public services.

The plan targets the creation of over 500 state-certified startups and 150,000 direct jobs. By fostering collaboration between startups, investors, and public institutions, Senegal hopes to accelerate the adoption of digital tools across industries and government sectors.

This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya

Adapted in English by Ange Jason Quenum