Sénégal has witnessed a significant shift in its administrative landscape with the recent restructuring of the Primature, following the appointment of Al Aminou Lô as Prime Minister in mid-2026. This transition marks a departure from the organizational framework established by his predecessor, Ousmane Sonko, who led the government for just six months.
From Sonko to Lô: a change in governance priorities
The new Prime Minister inherited a Primature reshaped by Ousmane Sonko’s brief but impactful tenure. In November 2025, Sonko introduced a series of organizational reforms through decree n°2025-1929, aimed at streamlining public administration and enhancing efficiency. Key additions included the Reform Monitoring and Orientation Unit, the Services Inspectorate, the Asset Valorization and Recycling Initiative Tracking Committee, and the Procurement Commission.
Under Sonko’s leadership, the General Secretariat of the Government also saw the creation of the Council of Ministers Preparation and Institutional Dossier Tracking Unit and the National Commission for Access to Information—both designed to bolster transparency and governance.
Al Aminou Lô’s administrative adjustments
Upon taking office, Al Aminou Lô implemented further organizational changes to align the Primature’s structure with new governance objectives. One notable adjustment was the transfer of the Technical Secretariat of the National Local Content Monitoring Committee—previously under the Ministry of Petroleum and Mines—into the Prime Minister’s office.
However, not all structures remained under the Primature’s umbrella. The Directorate General of National Civic Service and Volunteering was reassigned to the Ministry of Youth and Sports, signaling a shift in youth-focused policy implementation. Similarly, the Government Information and Communication Office (BIC-Gouv), previously led by journalist Mame Gor Ngom, was transferred to the Ministry of Communication and Institutional Relations.
Judicial and communication reforms
Another key change involved the National Observatory of Places of Deprivation of Liberty, which now falls under the Ministry of Justice, reflecting a renewed focus on human rights oversight. Additionally, the role of government spokesperson underwent a significant evolution. The position of Secretary of State for Government Relations and Spokesperson was abolished, with its responsibilities absorbed by a fully-fledged minister dedicated to Communication and Institutional Relations—effectively merging media and government liaison duties into a single portfolio.
A clearer division of responsibilities
These structural adjustments underscore the government’s commitment to refining administrative efficiency and clarifying the division of labor between the Primature and line ministries. By reassigning certain functions and consolidating others, the administration seeks to enhance coordination, reduce redundancy, and strengthen its responsiveness to national priorities.