Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has called on Senegalese citizens to brace themselves for tougher economic measures as the country navigates significant financial challenges. Speaking at a major Pastef rally in Dakar over the weekend, he urged the population to actively support the government’s recovery efforts.

The government has introduced a series of new taxes, including levies on gambling, money transfers, alcohol and tobacco, among others. These measures come at a time when many households are already grappling with rising living costs.

According to Sonko, shared sacrifice is necessary to restore economic stability and strengthen national finances. He emphasized that the reforms aim to protect the country from deeper structural vulnerabilities.

Economist Babou Meissa of Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar explains why public support is crucial despite the hardships, noting that broad participation can accelerate recovery and reduce long-term economic risks.