In the age of innovation and information, officials are hoping the new centre will result in much needed economic diversification, modernization, private sector development and inclusive growth in Senegal through the development of the ICT (Information Communications Technologies) sector. With 30,000 men and women currently involved in areas of ICT including sales, networking, systems design and software and content development, this site will be a hub for further study and development.

According to the African Development Bank Group, The Digital Technology Park will focus on the Senegal Government’s goal to establish a world-class infrastructure that will put the country as a centre for investment in the ICT sector, and Business Process Outsourcing. Additionally, the site will also facilitate the creation of information economy jobs, and advance innovation and application of ICT to economic and social development in Senegal and West Africa.

This project will also mark the beginning of opportunities for the community that will benefit many in the ICT and communications sector, which is becoming more prevalent in the area. The African Development Bank noted that the target populations include communications operators, internet service providers, multinationals.

The target beneficiaries will notably lean towards women, youth, and entrepreneurs who are looking to work in those fields and expand their skills. Government agencies and the community can also expect innovative developments coming from the centre, to improve public services and environments.

After the project’s approval in December 2015, the site is expected to complete construction in December 2021 with investment in the site totalling 70 million euros, most of which were provided by the African Development Bank. It will be located 35km outside of Dakar and accessible from the Blaise Diagne International Airport (AIDB).

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