Senegal is at a decisive turning point. Faced with rapid urbanization, growing energy demand and the impacts of climate change (rising sea levels, recurrent droughts, coastal erosion), the country is redefining its approach to development. Sustainable real estate is emerging as an essential solution, combining ecological innovation, social inclusion and economic resilience.
An urgent context: a changing environment and economy
With 40 % of its population living in coastal areas and an urbanization rate of 50 %, Senegal has to reconcile population growth with resource conservation. Cities such as Dakar and Saint-Louis face major challenges: water shortages, overloaded power grids and uncontrolled urban sprawl. The building sector, responsible for 30% of national COz emissions, is at the heart of this transition.
Ecological materials: Rediscovering local treasures
The country relies on both traditional and modern materials to reduce its carbon footprint:
- Compressed earth bricks: Produced locally, they combine low cost, thermal insulation and waste reduction.
- Bamboo: Used for framing and partitions, this renewable material is gaining in popularity thanks to projects like those run by Senegalese NGO Nebeday.
- Recycled concrete: Startups like E-Construct transform plastic waste into building materials, limiting pollution while creating jobs.
These alternatives, which are 20 % less expensive than imported materials, also meet the need for autonomy in the face of fluctuating cement prices.
Innovations and pioneering projects
Senegal is multiplying its green initiatives, supported by the Plan Sénégal Emergent (PSE) and international partners:
- Eco-neighborhoodsThe Diamniadio Valley project
- Verte features solar-powered housing and water recovery systems.
- Mass solarizationWith one of the best solar irradiation levels in the world (5.5 kWh/m?/day), the country is equipping public and private buildings with photovoltaic panels, aiming for 30 % of renewable energy by 2025.
- Green roofs and urban gardens: À Thiès, des habitations expérimentales combinant agriculture verticale et isolation naturelle voient le jour.
Policy and training: Structuring a sustainable industry
The government strengthens its regulatory framework:
- CEET (Certification Énergie-Environnement des Bâtiments) standards: inspired by international standards, they encourage low-carbon construction.
- Training programs : L'École
- Polytechnique de Thiès includes modules on eco-materials, while NGOs train craftsmen in green building techniques.
These efforts are supported by the World Bank and AFD, which are financing projects to the tune of 50 million euros.
Case study: The success story of Mbour's eco-city
Inaugurated in 2022, this 200-unit social housing project illustrates the potential of sustainable development:
- Energy: Solar panels and biogas from organic waste cover 80 % of needs.
- Water: Filtration systems and rainwater recovery reduce consumption by 40 %.
- Social impact: 300 jobs created during construction, with priority given to women and young people.
Challenges and opportunities
Despite progress, obstacles persist:
- Initial costs: Green financing remains limited, but mechanisms such as zero-interest loans are being developed.
- Concrete culture: Raising awareness of the benefits of local materials requires a change in mentality.
2025: Objectives and commitments
Senegal aims to :
- Triple the number of green homes by 2025.
- Generalize CEET standards in secondary towns.
- Launch a digital platform to track the carbon impact of real estate projects.
Act now : How to get involved
- Investing : Dedicated funds like FONSIS Vert support innovative SMEs.
- Get informed: Explore our comprehensive Guide to Sustainable Real Estate in Senegal 2025 for practical advice and feedback.
- Visit: Discover feasible models with our Virtual Tours of ecological homes, including technical analyses and testimonials from residents.
Sustainable real estate is not an option, but a necessity.
By combining local know-how and innovative technologies, Senegal is writing a new page in its development - inclusive, resilient and respectful of its natural heritage.
Join this movement: every stone laid today builds tomorrow's future.
*Together, let's build a green and prosperous Senegal.
Sustainable real estate is not an option, but a necessity.
By combining local know-how and innovative technologies, Senegal is writing a new page in its development - inclusive, resilient and respectful of its natural heritage.
Join this movement: every stone laid today builds tomorrow's future.
*Together, let's build a green and prosperous Senegal.