By HAN News Desk
DIAMNIADIO — Senegal has officially inaugurated its first tactical military vehicle assembly plant, marking a significant step toward strengthening the country’s defense industry and reducing reliance on imports. The facility, known as ISEVEM (Industrie Senegalaise de Véhicules Militaires), is located in Diamniadio, near the capital Dakar.
The opening ceremony was led by Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who emphasized the plant’s role in boosting local production, creating jobs, and advancing technological expertise. The project was established through a partnership with South Korea, which will provide technical support, training, and technology transfer to Senegalese workers.
ISEVEM is expected to produce approximately 1,000 tactical military vehicles annually. In addition to manufacturing, the plant will serve as a training center for Senegalese engineers and technicians, enhancing the country’s domestic capabilities in military vehicle production.
Officials said the initiative reflects Senegal’s broader strategy to strengthen national security, stimulate industrial growth, and reduce dependency on imported defense equipment. Analysts say the move could also position Senegal as a potential regional supplier of military vehicles in West Africa.
“This plant is a milestone for Senegal’s defense industry and for our national workforce,” President Faye said during the ceremony. “It represents not only progress in technology and manufacturing but also investment in the skills and future of our people.”
The government plans to expand the facility in the coming years, with long-term goals of producing more advanced military equipment locally and fostering greater self-reliance in defense capabilities.
