Senegal

France has officially returned its last military base in Senegal, signaling the conclusion of a 65-year military presence. This significant withdrawal leaves the French armed forces without any permanent installations in West and Central Africa. It is a poignant moment, considering the broader trend of former colonies increasingly distancing themselves from their historical colonizers. At the heart of this transition is President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who took office in 2024 with a resolute promise: to ensure that all…

For over a century, Senegal has grappled with trachoma—a bacterial eye disease that can lead to irreversible blindness. This persistent health challenge has affected countless lives, dimming the vibrant spirit of communities across the nation. First documented in the early 1900s, trachoma was confirmed as a significant cause of blindness through nationwide surveys in the 1980s and 1990s. It was a grim revelation that highlighted the urgent need for intervention. Can you imagine the despair of individuals and…

LGBTQI Event Cancellation: The Interplay of Human Rights and National Sovereignty Recently, a significant event aimed at raising awareness about LGBTQI issues was organized by the United Nations and the Dutch embassy. The program included a film screening followed by heartfelt discussions, creating a platform for dialogue and understanding. But as often happens when discussing sensitive topics, especially in conservative regions, the context quickly shifted. In a startling twist, the Senegalese foreign ministry…

Akon City Dream Reshaped: Senegal’s Vision Takes a New Turn Senegal has recently made headlines with a significant shift regarding R&B singer Akon’s ambitious project to construct a multibillion-dollar city along the nation’s stunning Atlantic coastline. In the face of mounting economic pressures, plans for “Akon City” have been officially scrapped. Instead, the government has opted for a more modest, yet equally promising, privately funded development. Back in 2020, the Senegalese government allocated an impressive…

In a vibrant display of prowess on the continental stage, Mansur Abdullahi, the former team manager of Nigeria's Super Falcons, stands resolute in his belief. With a track record of success, the nine-time African champions are on the cusp of clinching their 10th title at the Women Africa Cup of Nations unfolding in Morocco. Having already triumphed over Tunisia, they now prepare for their pivotal match against Botswana. As the team gears up for their Wednesday evening clash at the Stade Olympique in Rabat, the intensity of…

In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court has upheld the conviction of Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko for defamation, a verdict first delivered in January 2024. This decision pertains to accusations against him for attempting to tarnish the reputation of former tourism minister Mame Mbaye Niang. The ramifications extend far beyond the courtroom, playing a pivotal role in the political landscape of the nation. As the Supreme Court dismissed Sonko’s appeal for a reversal, the implications for his political career became…

In The Gambia, the livelihoods of countless fishermen have plummeted into a crisis that deepens daily. The declining fish stocks have painted a bleak picture, exacerbated by soaring fuel prices and the relentless presence of foreign trawlers stripping the waters of vital marine life. Fish such as sardines and bonga, once abundant and processed in local factories, have seen their fate redirected to European and Chinese markets, primarily for aquaculture feeding. This shift threatens not only local economies but also the…

Strengthening Alliances: A New Chapter in China-Senegal Relations In a significant gathering held in Beijing on a recent Friday, Chinese President Xi Jinping welcomed Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko. This meeting bespoke of a deep-seated commitment to mutual growth, highlighting the remarkable strides both nations have made since the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation. One can't help but wonder: what are the underlying motivations that drive these alliances between nations that…

England Suffers Historic Defeat against Senegal On Tuesday evening, a solemn atmosphere engulfed the stadium as England exited the pitch to a chorus of boos, having endured a 3-1 defeat against Senegal in what was not just any friendly match—it marked the first loss under the reign of their new coach, Thomas Tuchel. The implications of this game resonate far beyond the scoreline; they prompt deeper reflections on team dynamics and preparation, particularly with the World Cup looming on the horizon. Harry…

On May 8th, the vibrant city of Dakar witnessed a significant stride towards economic empowerment with the official launch of the second phase of the Project for Support and Promotion of Women's and Youth's Entrepreneurial Initiatives, known as PAVIE II. This initiative, strategically rooted in the ambitious “Sénégal 2050” national development framework, boasts a substantial budget of €163.449 million. But what does this really mean for the people of Senegal? The essence of PAVIE II lies not just in numbers but in the…