In the rapidly developing suburb of Diamniadio, an ultramodern building designed to position Senegal as a regional diplomatic hub has stood nearly empty for almost two years.
The United Nations House, inaugurated with high hopes on November 23, 2023, by former President Macky Sall and UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed, was intended to host country offices, regional agencies, and international organisations under one secure roof. Yet, despite its grandeur and strategic vision, the complex remains unused and its future uncertain.
Valued at 211 billion CFA francs, the project represents a significant financial commitment for Senegal.
The state is obliged to repay an annual sum of 12 billion CFA francs, backed by a sovereign guarantee on a loan obtained from a Chinese bank. Failure to meet these repayments could jeopardise the nation’s financial rating, adding pressure on the government to find a swift resolution.
Elimane Pouye, director of the public company SOGEPA, shed light on the prolonged vacancy during an interview on 7TV. Originally, the building was designed to house 12 regional UN offices, whose presence was formally agreed upon. However, budget cuts enforced by the Trump administration led to a withdrawal or postponement of several agencies’ plans to relocate to Diamniadio.
Currently, 21 UN country offices have expressed willingness to occupy the space, on condition that they can share it with international NGOs that comply with strict security standards. “Discussions are underway on this mixed configuration,” Pouye said, “which could breathe new life into the building and justify the billions invested.” But for now, the premises remain unoccupied, dust accumulating amid tight security.
As diplomatic negotiations stall, a pragmatic alternative is emerging: repurposing parts of the building for Senegalese government administrative services. This move could save the state up to 6 billion CFA francs annually by reducing office rental costs in Dakar.
Beyond economics, the empty United Nations House raises broader questions about the planning and execution of large public projects reliant on state guarantees.
The building now stands as a stark symbol of unfulfilled urban ambitions amid shifting international realities, highlighting a disconnect between diplomatic aspirations and financial pragmatism. Until agreements are reached, this architectural showcase remains a hollow emblem of suspended hopes.
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