Chinese state-owned engineering giant Sinohydro has been selected to lead the construction of Senegal’s first-ever “water highway”, a transformative water transfer project aimed at improving access to potable water across the country.
This project is part of the new Senegalese government’s water transfer initiative, the Grand Transfert d’Eau (GTE) initiative which seeks to ensure water security and bolster sustainable development in the face of growing climate challenges. The 250-kilometer aqueduct will link water from a large freshwater lake in Lac de Guiers in the north to the cities of Mbour, Thiès and Dakar the country’s capital.
Sinohydro was selected over several international competitors for its proven track record in executing large-scale hydrological and civil engineering projects in Africa and beyond, as well as its competitive cost proposal and commitment to local capacity building. According to Senegalese government officials, the decision was also influenced by the company’s successful completion of previous infrastructure works in the country, notably the Félou Hydropower Plant and key road projects, which were delivered on time and within budget.
Speaking on the sidelines of the project’s announcement, Cheikh Tidiane Dieye, Senegal’s Minister of Water and Sanitation, said that Sinohydro was the only company that met all the criteria set by the Senegalese authorities.
According to Abdou Niang, managing director of the National Water Co. of Senegal, the project will deliver 165,000 cubic metres of water per day to the Thiès Plateau. Additionally, pumping stations and pipelines will be installed to optimise supply and tap into additional underground resources, particularly the Ndièyène Sira and Thiénaba aquifers, which are expected to provide a further 15,000 cubic metres of water.
Ma Yuxin, vice president of PowerChina International, said that the company will introduce innovative solutions to meet Senegal’s water needs while adhering to economic, social, and environmental requirements, as Sinohydro has been operating in Senegal for 17 years.
The Senegalese Sovereign Fund for Strategic Investment (FONSIS) signed the partnership agreement with Sinohydro. According to project details, the project is set for completion in 2028 with a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability, community engagement, and technology transfer. Sinohydro officials have pledged to work closely with Senegalese engineers and local firms to maximize local participation.
