During an official visit to Sierra Leone on June 2 and 3, 2025, Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko called for the opening of a maritime corridor linking Dakar to Freetown. This proposal was made during his meeting with Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio, as part of a regional diplomatic tour aimed at strengthening cooperation between Senegal and several West African countries.

Maritime Corridor Objectives

Stimulate economic exchanges: Ousmane Sonko emphasized that the geographical proximity between Senegal and Sierra Leone (only 1,000 kilometers by sea) represents an opportunity to boost trade and facilitate the movement of goods and people between the two capitals.

Strengthening regional connectivity: The maritime corridor is part of a broader regional integration strategy aimed at improving connectivity and solidarity between West African countries, in accordance with Senegal’s new diplomatic doctrine.

Developing strategic sectors: Discussions also focused on partnerships in energy, extractive industries, maritime transport, and fisheries, sectors deemed priorities for both countries.

Reactions and perspectives

President Julius Maada Bio welcomed the initiative, expressing his desire to deepen bilateral relations and capitalize on the underexploited potential between Dakar and Freetown. Both parties are considering signing structural agreements to formalize this partnership, with the establishment of technical committees to define the modalities of cooperation.

Regional Diplomatic Tour

Before Sierra Leone, Ousmane Sonko had already visited Côte d’Ivoire and Guinea, demonstrating the Senegalese government’s commitment to promoting a pan-African vision based on unity, sovereignty, and regional solidarity.

Ousmane Sonko’s proposal for a Dakar-Freetown maritime corridor marks an important step in reviving economic trade and strengthening ties between Senegal and Sierra Leone, as part of a drive for greater regional integration in West Africa.