Senegal | Oxfam International

Senegal, officially the Republic of Senegal, is the westernmost country in West Africa. While it is characterized in the continent by political alternation, democratic stability and diplomatic leadership, it faces significant challenges related to economic inequality and social injustice. With a population of over 18 million, including a substantial youth demographic, addressing these issues is crucial for sustainable development and social cohesion.

Challenges

In the aftermath of the presidential election that led to a new alternation putting an end to two years of political tensions, Senegal continues to face major challenges. Nearly two out of five Senegalese live below the poverty line, with almost one in two living in rural areas. With a projected population of almost 39 million in 2050, if no measures or reforms are implemented, demographic growth would push the number of informal workers to 4 million, while the number of unemployed will rise to 2.7 million by 2050.

Senegal is facing a growing debt servicing burden, which severely limits the country’s fiscal room for maneuver to finance essential development projects. At the end of September 2024, the government shared the provisional results of the public accounts audits that the new government launched as soon as it took office. The budget deficit and public debt are reported to be much higher than those declared by the previous political regime.

Despite these major challenges, opportunities exist through ongoing reforms in governance and resource management, particularly in the extractive sector, which could enhance community benefits if effectively implemented.