President Bassirou Diomaye Faye addresses housing costs and rent regulation in Senegal

This directive comes as rent regulation has been an ongoing challenge in the country for several years. Since 2014, the state has attempted to control rising rents, but with limited success in fully implementing adopted measures. A presidential decree from March 2023 introduced a gradual rent reduction scale: 15% to 20% for rents up to 300,000 CFA francs, 10% for rents between 300,000 and 500,000 CFA francs, and 5% for rents above that amount.

A National Rent Regulation Commission Conarel was also established to monitor its application. However, many landlords continue to circumvent regulations through hidden increases, tenant changes, or discriminatory rental practices. The President's focus on the coercive aspect of the system suggests a more assertive approach compared to previous, less effective regulatory campaigns.

Housing is a key social priority for the new administration, as access to decent housing remains a major challenge for many, particularly in Dakar, where rents have consistently increased.