🇸🇳SenegalWest Africa
Senegal's Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko announces interministerial council on dormant infrastructure
via SeneNews1 min read
Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko announced an interministerial council on infrastructure to be held between late April and the first half of May 2026. This initiative aims to address public infrastructure projects that are completed but not yet operational. Sonko noted that significant investments have been made over the past twelve years, but a substantial portion of these projects, though technically and financially finalized, remain unusable, some for several years. He described these "dormant" assets as a financial and social waste, yet also a potential source of value. He suggested mechanisms like the transfer of usage rights, concessions, long-term leases, and public-private partnerships PPPs to mobilize new investment resources. The Prime Minister also emphasized that ongoing projects must be completed promptly and integrated into a sustainable operational and maintenance framework from the outset. The Minister, Secretary General of the Government, in conjunction with the Operational Office for Coordination and Monitoring of Projects and Programs, and under the technical coordination of the Minister of Infrastructure, is responsible for organizing the council. Each relevant minister must submit, within fifteen days, a comprehensive and certified inventory of completed, non-operational infrastructure that could be repurposed. Based on this inventory, the interministerial council will assess the legal maturity of each asset, set a six-month commissioning schedule with monito
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France's elimination in the 2026 World Cup semi-finals has significantly altered the Ballon d'Or race. While individual performance, titles, and influence throughout the season are considered, the World Cup often serves as a decisive factor in World Cup years. Harry Kane, captain of England, is currently considered the top favorite due to his remarkable season with Bayern Munich and his team's continued presence in the World Cup. Winning the World Cup would solidify his position as the leading contender. Kylian Mbappé, despite France's early exit, remains a strong candidate due to his exceptional season with Real Madrid and impressive statistics. Ousmane Dembélé, the reigning Ballon d'Or holder, also maintains a strong position in the top three after a high-level season with Paris Saint-Germain, though the absence of a World Cup final appearance could be a disadvantage. Lamine Yamal, at 19, has emerged as a revelation, with his performance for Spain potentially making him the youngest ever Ballon d'Or winner if Spain secures the World Cup. Jude Bellingham, a key player for England, also has a strong chance to climb the rankings if the Three Lions win the title. The final matches of the World Cup are expected to heavily influence the ultimate decision for the 2026 Ballon d'Or.
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