The verdict in three sentences
A Dakar accounting firm that digitises document collection and OHADA filings first gains time and reliability. A custom build at 8,000,000-22,000,000 FCFA (about EUR 12,200-33,500) aligns the tool with the SYSCOHADA chart of accounts and local deadlines, where an imported SaaS imposes its own formats. The calculation turns on the 4-7 month delivery and maintenance of 300,000-800,000 FCFA/month, weighed against the limits of a foreign subscription.
Custom or imported SaaS: the FCFA comparison
Many firms first try a foreign SaaS, then hit local VAT, the SYSCOHADA chart and support language.
| Criterion | Custom (Dakar) | Imported SaaS |
|---|---|---|
| Initial cost | 8,000,000-22,000,000 FCFA | low |
| Monthly cost | maintenance 300,000-800,000 FCFA | 15,000-45,000 FCFA/user |
| SYSCOHADA compliance | native | partial to absent |
| Local tax deadlines | built in | rarely |
| Client portal | included | vendor-dependent |
| French/local support | yes | variable |
| Code ownership | you | no |
Over 5 years, a SaaS at 30,000 FCFA/user for 8 users comes to about 14,400,000 FCFA in licences, with no ownership or guaranteed compliance. The custom build becomes an asset of the firm.
What an OHADA-compliant custom build covers
Value comes not from an enhanced spreadsheet but from end-to-end automation, from document upload to filing.
| Module | Function | Estimated gain |
|---|---|---|
| Client portal | Online document upload | -70 % chasing |
| Deadline reminders | VAT, CT, DSF, licence tax | zero misses |
| SYSCOHADA production | Journals, ledger, balance | compliance |
| Engagement tracking | Time and profitability | +10-15 % billable |
| Dashboard | Collections and arrears | real-time steering |
| Digital archiving | Timestamped documents | easier audit |
The client portal is often what transforms the organisation: businesses upload their invoices directly, the firm stops chasing documents.
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Mini case study
Ms. Diallo runs a 9-staff firm in Dakar. Each staff member loses about 6 h/week chasing clients for documents. At a loaded cost of 4,000 FCFA/h, that is 9 x 6 x 4,000 x 45 weeks, roughly 9,720,000 FCFA of lost time per year. A custom build at 15,000,000 FCFA (plus 500,000 FCFA/month maintenance) that cuts chasing by 70 % recovers about 6,800,000 FCFA/year of productive capacity: the investment pays back in a little over two years, excluding compliance gains.
FAQ
How much does a custom accounting tool cost in Dakar? In 2026, expect 8,000,000 to 22,000,000 FCFA (about EUR 12,200-33,500) depending on scope (portal, SYSCOHADA production, deadlines, dashboards).
What is the delivery time? As an order of magnitude, 4 to 7 months, with interim releases every 3-4 weeks to test each module.
How much is maintenance? Budget 300,000 to 800,000 FCFA/month depending on support level, enhancements and hosting.
Is an imported SaaS cheaper? At entry yes, but over 5 years licences (often 15,000-45,000 FCFA/user/month) and the lack of SYSCOHADA compliance end up costing more than an asset you own.
Does the tool handle OHADA tax deadlines? Yes: VAT, CT, DSF and licence tax are configured with automatic reminders, virtually eliminating late filings.
Let's scope your project. Share your headcount, your client portal and SYSCOHADA compliance needs, and an indicative budget in FCFA. Detailed quote within 48 h. WhatsApp +221 77 596 93 33.
Mohamed Bah
Fondateur, Kolonell
Passionate about digital and entrepreneurship in Africa, Mohamed has been helping Sénégalese businesses with their digital transformation since 2020. Founder of Kolonell, he believes every SME deserves a professional and accessible online présence.
