Senegal’s Ministry of Transportation is expanding access to vehicle inspections with the rollout of mobile testing units, a move aimed at easing burdens on transport operators and improving road safety. The initiative comes after discussions with transport unions and relevant government services.
Beginning in mid-April 2026, mobile inspection units will be deployed to regions outside of Dakar, including Kédougou, Tambacounda, Ziguinchor, Kolda, Sédhiou, Matam, Saint-Louis, Louga, Kaffrine and Kaolack. This will allow vehicle inspections to be conducted on-site, particularly for minibuses with 12 to 19 seats currently subject to a recall operation extending through May 2026.
The mobile units are intended to eliminate the need for transport operators to travel to the capital for inspections. According to the Ministry, this measure is designed to balance road safety requirements with the operational realities of the transportation sector.
In addition to the mobile units, the Ministry announced the formation of an ad hoc committee to address key concerns raised by industry stakeholders. The committee will examine issues such as roadside checks, a ban on nighttime public transport operation between midnight and 5 a.m., and competition within the sector, including taxis, ride-sharing services, and informal transport.
The committee will be comprised of technical staff from the government, representatives from transport unions, and professionals from the transportation industry. Its mandate includes analyzing roadblocks, evaluating existing regulations, and proposing workable, consensus-based solutions.
The Ministry reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining ongoing dialogue with the transportation sector, respecting both social agreements and road safety imperatives. The move underscores the government’s focus on collaborative solutions to improve transportation infrastructure and safety standards.
