Senegal is located on the west coast of Africa, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, Mauritania to the north and northeast, Mali to the east, and Guinea and Guinea-Bissau to the south. The country is located in the westernmost part of the African continent and is often referred to as the “Gateway to Africa” due to its strategic location.

Geography

Climate

Senegal has a tropical climate, characterized by a dry season from November to May and a rainy season from June to October. The country experiences high temperatures year-round, with cooler temperatures along the coast due to the influence of the Atlantic Ocean.

Fauna

Senegal is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including various species of birds, mammals, and reptiles. The country’s national parks and reserves provide habitats for animals such as lions, elephants, giraffes, hippos, and crocodiles.

Longest Rivers

The Senegal River is the longest river in Senegal, stretching approximately 1,086 kilometers (675 miles) from its source in Guinea through Senegal and Mauritania before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean.

Highest Mountains

Senegal is relatively flat, and it does not have significant mountain ranges. The highest point in the country is an unnamed hill near Nepen Diakha in the Fouta Djallon region, reaching an elevation of around 581 meters (1,906 feet) above sea level.

History

Prehistory

Senegal has a rich prehistoric heritage, with evidence of human occupation dating back thousands of years. The region was inhabited by various ethnic groups, including the Serer, Wolof, and Fulani, who left behind megalithic monuments and artifacts.

Ancient Kingdoms

Senegal was once home to powerful kingdoms and empires, including the Ghana Empire, the Jolof Empire, and the Wolof Kingdoms. These civilizations flourished due to trade networks that stretched across the Sahara Desert and along the coast.

Colonial Era

The arrival of European colonizers in the 15th century had a profound impact on Senegal. The country became a major hub for the transatlantic slave trade, with European powers establishing trading posts and fortresses along the coast.

Independence and Modern Age

Senegal gained independence from France in 1960, becoming a republic with Leopold Sedar Senghor as its first president. Since then, the country has made strides in economic development and political stability, although challenges such as poverty and environmental degradation persist.

Demographics

Population

Senegal has a population of approximately 16.7 million people, with a diverse mix of ethnic groups and cultures. The largest ethnic groups include the Wolof, Pulaar, Serer, and Jola.

Ethnicity and Language

The Wolof ethnic group is the largest in Senegal, and the Wolof language is widely spoken throughout the country. French is the official language and is used in government, education, and the media.

Religion

Islam is the dominant religion in Senegal, with the majority of the population adhering to Sunni Islam. Sufi brotherhoods play a significant role in Senegalese society and culture, promoting values of peace, tolerance, and spiritual development.

Administrative Divisions and Population

Senegal is divided into 14 administrative regions, each headed by a governor appointed by the president. Here are the first-level administrative divisions along with their populations:

1. Dakar Region – Population: 3.2 million
2. Thiès Region – Population: 1.8 million
3. Diourbel Region – Population: 1.4 million
4. Saint-Louis Region – Population: 1.1 million
5. Louga Region – Population: 1.0 million
6. Tambacounda Region – Population: 0.8 million
7. Kaolack Region – Population: 1.4 million
8. Fatick Region – Population: 0.9 million
9. Kolda Region – Population: 0.9 million
10. Ziguinchor Region – Population: 0.7 million
11. Sédhiou Region – Population: 0.5 million
12. Kédougou Region – Population: 0.3 million
13. Matam Region – Population: 0.8 million
14. Kaffrine Region – Population: 0.7 million

10 Largest Cities by Population

1. Dakar
2. Pikine
3. Touba
4. Thies
5. Rufisque
6. Kaolack
7. Ziguinchor
8. M’bour
9. Saint-Louis
10. Diourbel

Education Systems

Free Education

Education is free and compulsory for children aged 6 to 16 in Senegal, with primary and secondary education provided by the government. However, access to quality education remains a challenge in rural areas.

Top Universities

Senegal is home to several universities and higher education institutions, including Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar, which is considered one of the top universities in West Africa. Other notable institutions include Gaston Berger University in Saint-Louis and Université Alioune Diop de Bambey.

Transportation

Airports

Senegal has several airports, with the largest being Blaise Diagne International Airport near Dakar. Other major airports include Ziguinchor Airport, Saint-Louis Airport, and Cap Skirring Airport.

Railways

Senegal has a limited railway network, with the Dakar-Niger Railway being the primary line. Plans for expansion and modernization of the railway network are underway to improve transportation infrastructure in the country.

Highways

Senegal has an extensive network of highways and roads connecting major cities and regions. The Trans-West African Coastal Highway, also known as the Dakar-Lagos Highway, passes through Senegal, facilitating trade and travel along the West African coast.

Country Facts

• Population: 16.7 million
• Capital: Dakar
• Official Language: French
• Religion: Islam
• Currency: West African CFA franc (XOF)
• ISO Country Codes: SN, SEN
• International Calling Code: +221
• Top-Level Domain: .sn