Senegal

World Book Index

Introduction

Senegal, a vibrant nation located on the westernmost tip of Africa, has a rich history shaped by its colonial past and diverse cultural heritage. The French began their expansion onto the Senegalese mainland in the latter half of the 19th century, establishing it as a French colony. In 1959, Senegal merged with French Sudan, gaining independence in 1960 as part of the Mali Federation. However, this union was short-lived, dissolving after only a few months. In 1982, Senegal formed a nominal confederation with The Gambia, known as Senegambia, although the intended integration was never realized, leading to its dissolution in 1989. Today, Senegal is recognized for its democratic governance and cultural richness, making it a significant player in West Africa.

Neighboring countries

Gambia - Guinea - Guinea-Bissau - Mali - Mauritania

Geography

Area
Total: 196,722 sq km
Land: 192,530 sq km
Water: 4,192 sq km

Senegal is characterized by its diverse geography, which includes a mix of coastal plains, savannahs, and hilly regions. The country is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, providing it with a significant maritime influence. The climate is predominantly tropical, with a hot and humid atmosphere. The rainy season, which lasts from May to November, is marked by strong southeast winds, while the dry season from December to April is dominated by the hot, dry harmattan wind. Senegal is endowed with natural resources, including fish, phosphates, and iron ore, which play a vital role in its economy and development.

People and Society

Population
Total: 18,847,519 (2024 estimated)

Senegal's population is a tapestry of ethnic diversity, with the largest groups being the Wolof (39.7%), Pulaar (27.5%), and Sereer (16%). Other significant ethnic communities include the Mandinka, Jola, Soninke, and a small percentage of Europeans and persons of Lebanese descent. The official language is French, reflecting the country's colonial history, while indigenous languages such as Wolof, Pulaar, Jola, Mandinka, Serer, and Soninke are widely spoken. The predominant religion is Islam, with 97.2% of the population adhering to the faith, primarily through one of the four main Sufi brotherhoods. Christianity, mainly Roman Catholicism, accounts for 2.7% of the population. The population growth rate is estimated at 2.46% for 2024, indicating a youthful demographic that presents both opportunities and challenges for the nation.

Government

Government type
Presidential republic

Capital
Name: Dakar

Senegal operates as a presidential republic, where the President serves as both the head of state and government. The current chief of state is President Bassirou Diomaye FAYE, who has been in office since April 2, 2024. The Prime Minister, Ousmane SONKO, also took office on the same date. Senegal maintains diplomatic relations with various countries, including the United States, represented by Ambassador Michael RAYNOR since March 10, 2022, who is also accredited to Guinea-Bissau. The diplomatic mission in the U.S. is led by Ambassador Abdoul Wahab HAIDARA, who has been in position since July 24, 2025.

Economy

Economic overview
Senegal's economy is classified as a lower middle-income, services-driven West African economy. The key sectors include mining, construction, agriculture, and fishing, which are crucial for the country's economic stability. However, the tourism and export sectors have faced significant challenges due to the impacts of COVID-19. The economy also features a large informal sector, which plays a vital role in employment and livelihoods. In recent years, Senegal has been developing its offshore oil and gas fields, which hold the potential to transform its economic landscape. Nevertheless, systemic corruption remains a significant hurdle to sustainable growth and development.

Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
$83.183 billion (2024 estimated)
$77.82 billion (2023 estimated)
$74.642 billion (2022 estimated)

Real GDP per capita
$4,500 (2024 estimated)
$4,300 (2023 estimated)
$4,200 (2022 estimated)

Exports
$7.001 billion (2023 estimated)
$7.418 billion (2022 estimated)
$6.78 billion (2021 estimated)

Exports - partners
Mali 21%, India 12%, Switzerland 11%, China 5%, UAE 4% (2023)

Exports - commodities
Gold, refined petroleum, phosphoric acid, fish, cement (2023)

Imports
$14.916 billion (2023 estimated)
$14.698 billion (2022 estimated)
$12.278 billion (2021 estimated)

Imports - partners
China 19%, France 9%, Nigeria 7%, India 7%, Russia 5% (2023)

Imports - commodities
Refined petroleum, crude petroleum, rice, garments, wheat (2023)

Human Development Index

The country's Human Development Index (HDI) is 0.530, ranking it 169th out of 193 countries tested. (more information)

World Happiness Report

The World Happiness Report ranked the country 108th out of 158 countries tested with a score of 4.893. (more information)