TER concession renewal stalled amid executive disagreements and Dakar 2026 Youth Olympics preparations
via SeneNews3 min read
The renewal of the Train Express Régional TER concession for the Dakar-Diamniadio line is stalled due to disagreements within the Senegalese executive, despite the contract having expired on February 15. The French partner, SNCF, continues to operate the TER and claims compensation for an operational deficit, which has reportedly increased from 18 billion to 32 billion. Initial plans for an international tender to introduce competition and secure better terms for the state were not realized due to bureaucratic delays. The TER, while popular, is a significant financial burden for the state. The original contract, negotiated on January 17, 2023, between Senter representing the Senegalese state and SNCF's subsidiary Seter, established a company where the Senegalese state held 34% and three board positions, including the Chairman. The contract, initially intended for five years by the French, was reduced to three years by the Macky Sall administration, but the French secured higher dividends, increasing from 106.2 billion to 120 billion CFA, in addition to state compensation for operational deficits. Currently, some Senegalese executives within Seter are reportedly lobbying authorities to not renew SNCF's contract, arguing that local expertise is sufficient to manage the TER. This proposal has found support within the Ministry of Transport, particularly with Minister Yankhoba Diémé, a close associate of Prime Minister Sonko, known for his "sovereignist" views. However, President
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by SeneNews.
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.
Must ReadSpain secured a 2-0 victory over France in the 2026 World Cup semi-finals, earning their spot in the final. The goals came from a Mikel Oyarzabal penalty and a strike by Pedro Porro. From the start, Spain, led by coach Luis de la Fuente, dominated possession and maintained effective pressing, with Dani Olmo, Rodri, and Lamine Yamal particularly influential. The first goal occurred in the 22nd minute when Mikel Oyarzabal converted a penalty after Lamine Yamal was fouled by Lucas Digne. France, coached by Didier Deschamps, struggled to gain control in midfield and create significant opportunities against a strong Spanish defense featuring Aymeric Laporte and Pau Cubarsí. France also faced an early setback with William Saliba's injury, leading to Maxence Lacroix's substitution. In the second half, despite substitutions by Deschamps including Manu Koné, Désiré Doué, Rayan Cherki, and Theo Hernandez, France could not change the game's momentum. Spain extended their lead in the 58th minute with Pedro Porro scoring after a well-constructed collective move involving Dani Olmo. Although Lamine Yamal had a third goal disallowed for offside, Spain maintained their advantage. In the final quarter, France attempted to push forward with efforts from Kylian Mbappé, Désiré Doué, and Theo Hernandez, but Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simón made crucial saves. Spain managed the remainder of the match with impressive collective control and solid defense, preventing any French comeback and securing the
Must ReadDespite the Senegalese government's stance against public debt restructuring, financial markets are showing apprehension. Creditors, including Morgan Stanley Investment Management and BlueBay Asset Management, are exploring the formation of a committee to protect their interests should renegotiations become necessary. The Minister of Economy, Finance, and Planning, Cheikh Diba, recently reiterated that the state has not changed its position, favoring an alternative strategy over formal debt restructuring. However, investors are preparing for all scenarios, with informal discussions underway to establish a group of creditors. This committee would collectively represent bondholders if Senegal decides to restructure its debt, a common practice in international markets to coordinate creditor positions during negotiations with states facing repayment difficulties.