Senegal Map

Description:

Senegal is a country in West Africa, bordered by Mauritania to the north, Mali to the east, Guinea and Guinea-Bissau to the south, and The Gambia within its territory. The country's capital and largest city is Dakar, situated on the westernmost point of Africa.

The official language is French, while Wolof serves as the most widely spoken native language. Islam is practiced by approximately 96% of the population, making it the predominant religion. The country gained independence from France in 1960, with Léopold Sédar Senghor becoming its first president.

Senegal's economy is driven by mining, construction, tourism, fisheries, and agriculture. The country is known for its production of peanuts, which has historically been a major export commodity. The Port of Dakar serves as one of West Africa's major maritime transportation hubs, facilitating international trade throughout the region.

The country's landscape varies from the Sahel in the north to the forests in the south. The Senegal River, which forms the border with Mauritania, is a vital water resource for agriculture and transportation. The climate is typically tropical with distinct dry and rainy seasons.

Senegalese culture is renowned for its music, particularly Mbalax, and its literature. The country has produced notable figures in arts and literature, including Youssou N'Dour and the aforementioned Léopold Sédar Senghor. Sports play a significant role in Senegalese society, with football being the most popular. The national football team achieved its greatest success by winning the Africa Cup of Nations in 2022.

Flag:
Capital:	Dakar
Area:	75,955 sq mi (196,722 sq km)
Population:	~ 18,847,519 (2024 estimate)
Official language:	French, Wolof, Pulaar
Religion (2022):	97.2% - Islam 2.7% - Christianity 0.1% - Other
Ethnic groups (2019 estimates):	39% - Wolof 27.5% - Fulani 16% - Serer 4.9% - Mandinka 4.2% - Jola 2.4% - Sonike 6% - Other
Currency:	West African CFA franc (XOF)
Driving side:	right
Calling code:	+221
Internet TLD:	.sn
Time zone:	UTC (GMT)
Gross domestic product (PPP) (2023 estimate):	$78.547 billion (Total) $4,324 (Per capita)
Gross domestic product (nominal) (2023 estimate):	$31.141 billion (Total) $1,714 (Per capita)
Official government website:	www.sec.gouv.sn

List of Largest Cities in Senegal

Regions of Senegal