On November 13, 2025, Senegal launched the development of its first Public Health Code, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at modernizing a legal framework for health deemed outdated and fragmented. Led by the Ministry of Health and Social Action, with technical and financial support from Amref Health Africa through the Africa Health Collaborative, this process marks a decisive step in national health governance.

A unified and modern legal framework

Until now, the regulation of the sector has relied on a patchwork of scattered texts, often inherited from outdated contexts and ill-suited to contemporary realities. The future Code aims to unify healthcare regulation, clarify healthcare professions, and strengthen health safety. It also seeks to guarantee equitable access to care and provide a coherent framework for coordinating public policies.

A first legislative draft in Saly

From November 7 to 11, 2025, a workshop held in Saly brought together experts, legal professionals, and healthcare experts. The workshop resulted in a first draft of the legislative section of the Code, laying the groundwork for a major reform. This text incorporates contemporary issues such as digital health, biomedical research, and preparedness for health crises—all areas that have become essential following recent experiences with pandemics and emerging epidemics.

A reform with lasting impact

Beyond its legal aspects, this initiative represents a strategic turning point for the Senegalese healthcare system. It provides a structured framework for improving the quality of services, strengthening cooperation between public and private stakeholders, and fostering international partnerships. The next step will be a national workshop to finalize the project before its submission to legislative bodies, paving the way for a sustainable and integrated reform.

Towards strengthened health governance

By equipping the country with a Public Health Code, Senegal affirms its commitment to building modern health governance capable of meeting the challenges of the 21st century. This reform, described as a "historic first" by the authorities, illustrates an ambition to make health a pillar of national sovereignty and a driver of human development.