Senegal Country Report

Senegal has long been one of the most stable countries in the historically volatile West Africa region, and one of the few not to have experienced a coup or forced seizure of power since independence. Under former President Macky Sall, the government made progress in combating corruption and implementing reforms as it actively pursues foreign investment, although some critics have accused the regime of cracking down on its opponents through its anti-graft efforts. The primary threats to foreign travelers are from petty criminal activity, road traffic accidents and health hazards. There are also latent concerns over the intent of transnational terrorist groups to target Senegal following attacks in nearby countries in recent years. Infrastructure is reasonable in Dakar but lacking in outlying areas, particularly in the south. The threat from a low-level separatist movement in southern Casamance has receded in recent years, although sporadic attacks persist.

Violence linked to a low-level insurgency in the southern exclave of Casamance has fallen significantly since 2012. Senegal does not have a history of terrorism, although concerns have mounted over a contagion of Islamist extremist activities in West Africa. Opportunistic street crime is the main threat to foreigners, especially in urban areas. Civil unrest occurs intermittently, driven mostly by grievances over socio-economic issues.

Overland travel in Senegal can be challenging due to varying road conditions, which can deteriorate significantly during the rainy season, as well as erratic driving by some local motorists. The unreliable supply of electricity and water has been a recurrent trigger of unrest in recent years. With one of the highest internet penetration rates in West Africa, Senegal is also vulnerable to cybercrime.

The climate in Senegal is semiarid in the north and tropical wet in the south. The rainy season lasts from June to October due to the African monsoon. Heavy downpours during this period can cause flash and urban flooding, resulting in significant disruptions and population displacement. In the dry season, a dry north-eastern wind, called Harmattan, capable of filling the air with dust from the desert, often blows throughout the country. Sandstorms can lead to ground and air transport disruptions due to reduced visibility, as well as pose a risk to health.

Insect-borne diseases can pose a serious threat to travelers, especially during the rainy season. Medical facilities in Dakar are generally well-equipped to deal with most common medical conditions and ailments, although the standard of medical care outside the capital is limited.

Corruption remains a problem, although the current government has made significant progress in tackling the issue in recent years.