THE MSGBC region, encompassing Senegal and The Gambia, has recognised the promising opportunities that arise from the convergence of the tourism and energy industries. Both countries are embracing innovative approaches to leverage these sectors for sustainable development and economic growth.
In Senegal, the development of the energy sector is revitalising the country’s tourism industry. Infrastructure and energy projects are being strategically implemented to expedite the growth and redevelopment of potential tourism destinations. One notable project is the Sandiara Special Economic Zone (SEZ), which incorporates a gas-to-power and solar facility set to power tourism hotspots along the southern coast.
Mbodiene, a fishing village located only 20 km from the SEZ, is a prime example of such a tourism destination. Pierre Diouf, CEO of LFR Energy, a leading real estate and energy firm involved in developing the gas-to-power facility in the SEZ, envisions Mbodiene’s transformation into a major tourist complex. ‘Our objective is to contribute to the creation of a new economic hub in the Thies region and, of course, to develop tourism in Senegal,’ explained Diouf.
With tourism already being the country’s second-largest foreign exchange earner, Senegal’s energy advancements are set to further boost the sector’s growth and infrastructure development. The anticipated first oil and gas production from the Sangomar and Greater Tortue Ahmeyim fields this year will likely lead to an unprecedented growth phase for the tourism industry.
Conversely, The Gambia has recognised the significance of tourism as a vital driver of its economy. Accounting for 20 percent of the country’s GDP and employing 19 percent of its population, tourism plays a crucial role in The Gambia’s prosperity. To further support and diversify its tourism sector, The Gambia received a $68 million grant from the International Development Association (IDA) of the World Bank, focused on enhancing climate resilience and diversification.
Interestingly, The Gambia sees its tourism industry as an opportunity to generate revenue to stimulate energy advancements. The country is actively working on building institutional and legislative frameworks, expanding finance access for tourism-related firms, developing remote areas, and promoting coastal sustainability. Additionally, the energy industry in The Gambia is undergoing significant changes, with initiatives to improve electricity delivery and utility corporation NAWEC’s reform, along with growing focus on frontier oil exploration.
The upcoming Energy Capital & Power’s MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2023 conference, scheduled to be hosted in Nouakchott from November 21–22, offers an ideal platform to encourage further investment in both the tourism and energy industries in Senegal and The Gambia. With the participation of regional and foreign investors, the conference provides opportunities for dialogue exchange and signing of significant deals, promoting sustainable development in the region.
For more information, visit conference link.
