Today, we journey to the westernmost point of the African mainland, Senegal, as it celebrates its 64th independence anniversary.

Senegal’s 64th independence is marked by jubilation. The country’s enduring democracy faced challenges during the recent general election, which resulted in the imprisonment of its elected President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye (BDF), by former president Macky Sall. Fortunately, BDF, who, at 44 years old, is one of Africa’s youngest presidents, was released and inaugurated this week on Tuesday.

A Rich History

Senegal boasts a rich historical tapestry, with evidence of continuous human habitation dating back to the Palaeolithic period. Much of present-day Senegal was under the rule of the Jolof Empire from the 14th to the 16th centuries. Interestingly, some historical accounts trace the origins of jollof rice, a favorite delicacy in West Africa, back to Senegal.

However, European powers, including the Portuguese, Dutch, French, and British, were drawn to Senegal for trade, eventually leading to French colonization. In 1964, Senegal gained independence from the French to become the Republic of Senegal.

Following independence, like many African nations, Senegal experienced single-party rule. The Socialist Party of Senegal governed for four decades until Abdoulaye Wade’s election as president in 2000 and subsequent re-election in 2007. In 2012, Macky Sall emerged victorious in the elections, leading the country until very recently. Nonetheless, Senegal is widely regarded as one of Africa’s most stable democracies. Sall’s decision to concede defeat and transfer power to BDF cleared doubts about the future of democratic governance in Senegal, especially amidst military coups in the region— in Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso, Niger, Chad, and Sudan in recent years.

Present-Day Senegal

Strategically positioned along the North Atlantic Ocean, Senegal is a vital logistical hub. The country is renowned for exporting fish, gold, phosphates, horticultural products, cement, peanuts, and nut oil. In 2022, Senegal’s GDP stood at approximately US$28 billion, with a GDP per capita of US$3,600. Despite setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic and recent political turbulence, the World Bank projects a 10.6% economic growth rate for Senegal in 2024, with a subsequent 7% growth the following year.

Despite its economic potential, Senegal faces various challenges. With a population estimated at 18,384,660 (as of 2023), 70% of Senegalese still reside in rural areas, while urbanization rates remain modest at around 49%. Moreover, the current unemployment rate hovers around 18%, with inflation currently at about 10%. 

Senegalese society is characterized by a vibrant culture and strong religious influence. This is exemplified by the recent debate sparked by the new president’s polygamous marriage. However, literacy rates remain low at 56.3% (as of 2021), while life expectancy stands at 67 years.

Deepening Senegal-Australia Relations

Diplomatic ties between Senegal and Australia are warm, with the Australian High Commission in Accra, Ghana, serving as the accrediting body for Senegal. In 2012, there were speculations about Australia opening an embassy in Dakar, Senegal, which would have been the first in French West Africa. While Senegal does not maintain a high commission in Australia, its consulate general in Melbourne, along with the embassy in Tokyo, Japan, represent Senegal in Australia.

Although the Senegalese community in Australia remains small, with only 470 reported individuals in 2020, bilateral trade between the two nations is noteworthy. According to the OEC, Senegal exported goods worth US$234 million to Australia in 2022, primarily comprising gold (US$227 million), niobium, tantalum, vanadium, zirconium ore (US$5.58 million), and machinery (US$398,000). In return, Australia exported coal briquettes (US$10.8 million), stone processing machines (US$2.3 million), and special-purpose motor vehicles (US$2.03 million) to Senegal.

Senegal-Australia relations demonstrate a growing partnership, marked by increasing trade and enhanced people-to-people exchanges. The new administration in Senegal has an opportunity to bolster this longstanding relationship further.

As Senegal celebrates its 64th Independence Day, it stands as a beacon of stability and progress in the region. With its rich history, economic potential, and deepening international relations, Senegal looks towards a promising future.

Happy 64th Independence Day, Senegal!