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Wednesday, 6 May 2026

EU throws itself under a bus



From Blackout News, AI translation from the original German.


EU pays Senegal 320 million euros for buses – China collects the order from Dakar

In Senegal, an EU-funded transport project is facing a delicate decision. For Dakar, 380 natural gas-powered buses, 14 lines, two depots, around 700 stops, 13 terminals, a ticketing system and road works are to be built. The financing is around 320 million euros. But the Chinese state-owned company CRRC is reportedly considered the favorite. The EU Commission cannot prevent an award to China as long as the tender is formally correct. This would allow European funds to pay Chinese fines. European manufacturers are affected, while China could further expand its influence in Africa.

The project is part of the EU's Global Gateway Strategy. Brussels wants to use it to promote infrastructure in Africa. At the same time, Dakar is to receive cleaner and more reliable local transport.

The financing is provided by several European institutions. These include the EU Commission, the European Investment Bank, KfW and the French AFD. That is why loans and grants are flowing into a project that reaches far beyond Dakar politically.

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