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Executive summary

InvestigationRecurring water cuts in Dakar: where do things stand in 2025?

This summary presents the main findings, causes, impacts and ongoing actions regarding water cuts in the Dakar region. It gives a quick understanding of the situation and of the responses provided by the authorities.

Back to the case file
Neighbourhoods affected
68
across 17 municipalities
Average frequency
3 to 5 days
of the cuts
Administrations involved
4
incl. SDE, SONES, Water Min.
Ongoing actions
12
followed by citizens

Context

For several years, Dakar has faced recurring water cuts affecting dozens of neighbourhoods, sometimes for several days. In 2025 the situation remains critical despite the announcements and projects launched by the authorities.

Key findings

  • The cuts affect 68 neighbourhoods in 17 municipalities of Dakar.
  • Cuts last 3 to 5 days on average.
  • Water demand far exceeds production capacity.
  • Distribution networks are old and leak heavily.
  • Information to citizens remains insufficient and late.

Identified causes

  • Production capacity insufficient for growing demand.
  • Ageing distribution networks and high water losses.
  • Power failures affecting pumping stations.
  • Delays in the payment of institutional subscriptions.
  • Lack of coordination between the sector’s stakeholders.

Impact on citizens

  • Access to drinking water compromised for thousands of households.
  • Greater use of costly and sometimes unsafe alternative sources.
  • Disruption of economic and school activities.
  • Increased health risks (water-borne diseases).
  • Lost time and daily stress.

Responses from the authorities

  • Production increased with new facilities.
  • Rehabilitation of boreholes and treatment plants.
  • Renewal programme for priority networks.
  • Digital incident tracking and communication.
  • Awareness campaigns on responsible consumption.

Points of vigilance

  • Sustainable financing of the projects still uncertain.
  • Pace of the works to be accelerated.
  • Transparency on deadlines and progress of the works.
  • Reduce unpaid bills and improve governance.
  • Keep a regular dialogue with citizens.

Summary conclusion

Water cuts in Dakar result from a combination of technical, financial and organisational factors. Concrete actions are under way, but their impact will depend on the speed of execution, transparency and the involvement of all stakeholders. Citizen vigilance remains essential.

Next steps

  1. Follow-up of ongoing worksMay – June 2025
  2. Assessment of the actions takenJuly – Aug. 2025
  3. Publication of a citizen progress reportSeptember 2025
  4. New measures and adjustmentsEnd of 2025