For the first time in its history, landlocked Mali will gain direct access to the Atlantic Ocean through a new navigation route along the Senegal River, a project expected to transform regional trade. The Saint-Louis–Ambidédi corridor, linking Saint-Louis in Senegal to Ambidédi in Mali’s Kayes region, will launch construction in April 2026.
Backed by the Organisation for the Development of the Senegal River (OMVS) and SOGENAV, the initiative aims to turn the river into a modern trade artery. By providing a reliable inland waterway, Mali hopes to reduce logistics costs, which have long been inflated due to dependence on road transport through neighboring countries. As reported by Business Insider Africa.
Boosting Trade and Competitiveness
Mali’s exporters, including gold, cotton, and agricultural products, have historically faced high costs and delays. Once operational, the corridor is projected to lower logistics costs by up to 60 percent, improving efficiency for bulk goods and enhancing Mali’s competitiveness in international markets.
Strategic Sovereignty and Regional Cooperation
Beyond economics, the project reinforces Mali’s trade sovereignty, allowing it greater control over its export routes. The initiative also demonstrates rare cross-border cooperation, involving Senegal, Mali, Mauritania, and Guinea, all sharing the Senegal River basin. This aligns with the Alliance of Sahel States’ (AES) broader strategy to reduce dependence on external routes.
If successful, the Saint-Louis–Ambidédi navigation corridor could serve as a blueprint for other landlocked African nations seeking to connect directly to global markets, reshaping trade patterns and strengthening regional integration.
