Francophone African Countries (Joey)
Senegal (Le Sénégal)

Senegal Beach
Description: Senegal Beach
Image copyright: http://eur.i1.yimg.com/eur.yimg.com/i/uk/tr/tg/lp/21/500_2170aa0aeafb39cd9840ec6016b8a6e0.jpg
Senegal is a warm and colorful tropical country. Everywhere you go, you see the French influence. The open markets are filled with products that represent the various cultures of Senegal. In the market you will find mostly tropical fruits and vegetables and a lot of seafood. These are the main staples of the people of Senegal and reflect the various cultures that make up this country.

Senegal is primarily a Muslim country; 92% of the population is Muslim, while only 2% is Christian, mostly Catholic. 6% make up the indigenous beliefs and tribes of the African nation. While French is the recognized language of Senegal, 43.3% speak Wolof, a native language of the country. You will also find Serer at 14.7%, Diola at 3.7%, Mandingo at 3%, and Pulnar at 23.8%. However, many people in the capital city of Dakar speak French.

Dakar is a city mixed with old and new. Even though French is the principal language, you still hear many of the tribal languages throughout the city. Dakar is a Wolof word, which means “Tamarind Tree.”
Senegal exports $925 million each year. Peanuts, the principal product of Senegal leads the list of products exported. Millet, rice, cotton, vegetables, and some cattle, poultry and fish are also exported. France receives 22% of all Senegal exports. However, Senegal imports $1.2 billion in products. Many of these products are foods and consumer goods, as well as petroleum products. 36% of the imports come from France, where the rest come from Nigeria, Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire, Algeria, the U.S. and Asia.

Life in Senegal also includes music, sports and art. Soccer is the favorite sport of the country, but canoe racing and wrestling are not far behind. The music is filled with the blues, calypso, reggae and rap. Music can be heard in the restaurants and the markets all throughout Dakar. Artisans are known for the beautiful gold and silver jewelry they make, and leather goods made from crocodile and iguana skins. Clothing in Senegal is always bright and filled with large printed designs. You can also find wood carvings and paintings as well.

Senegal does have its problems; a big problem is that only 72% of its population is near fresh water. Farmers have difficulty growing enough crops for their families and the average income is only $670 per year. Life expectancy in Senegal is only 56 years, and 39% of the country cannot read. Finally, only 48% of the children in Senegal go to school.

With all its problems, Senegal is an emerging African nation, with lots of promise. Its resources, when developed will improve the quality of life in Senegal, and with its beautiful beaches, wonderful music and terrific people, tourism should also grow.
Links:
   Bullet  Map of Senegal
   Bullet  Flag of Senegal
   Bullet  People of Senegal
   Bullet  Virtual Tour of Gorée Island (real 1 player needed)
   Bullet  Music of Senegal
   Bullet  Senegal Woodcarving
This page was edited by Joey Danick (Teacher: Sylvie Merlier-Rowen) using Web Poster Wizard.