In Senegal, much is said about agriculture, entrepreneurship, and youth, but one word is increasingly cropping up in conversations sometimes discreetly, sometimes with enthusiasm: digital. Behind this term lie profound transformations in the way we work, communicate, learn, and even dream.
A revolution that is just beginning
Over the past few years, digital technology has seeped into every corner of society. In schools, teachers are discovering online learning tools. In businesses, management, communication, and customer relations are gradually shifting to digital platforms. Even in small shops, owners are using WhatsApp to receive orders or Excel to track sales.
But this revolution doesn’t stop in Dakar. It extends to Kaolack, Thiès, Saint-Louis, Ziguinchor, It reaches Touba, where self-taught young people are creating technological solutions tailored to our realities.
Opportunities for all
Digital technology is, above all, an opportunity. An opportunity for young people to train differently, often online and sometimes for free. An opportunity for women entrepreneurs to reach customers beyond their neighborhoods. An opportunity for artisans to showcase their creations through social media. And an opportunity for SMEs to automate certain tasks and improve efficiency, even with limited resources.
Let’s take a concrete example: a Senegalese company that sells clothing. Thanks to digital tools, it can:
- Create an Instagram account or an online store.
- Use a simple tool to track orders.
- Send automated messages to customers via WhatsApp Business.
- Learn digital marketing without leaving home.
All of this is possible today, and it doesn’t always require a large budget.
Challenges along the way
Of course, not everything is perfect. There are still many obstacles: the quality of internet connections, the cost of equipment, a lack of training in some areas, and skepticism from some regarding digital tools. However, these challenges are not insurmountable. With a little support, a lot of ingenuity, and strong adaptability (qualities that Senegalese people have in abundance), digital technology can truly become a lever for development for everyone.
The role of local players like Jangaan Tech
It is within this context that local startups like Jangaan Tech have a crucial role to play. Based in Touba, this startup specializes in AI automation, training and digital services, helping Senegalese businesses make better use of digital tools. It trains young people, creates simple and effective solutions and makes complex technological concepts more accessible.
Because we know: for digital transformation to truly succeed, it must speak Wolof when necessary, understand the realities on the ground and address real needs.
Digital technology: A matter of vision
Ultimately, digital technology is not just about technology, it’s about vision. Are we ready to think bigger, to imagine differently, to envision a future where a farmer in Diourbel can check the weather on their phone? Where a student in Louga can learn artificial intelligence from her room? This is possible. And it starts today, not tomorrow.
