Senegal is a country located in West Africa. It is bordered by Mauritania to the north, Mali to the east, Guinea to the southeast, Guinea-Bissau to the southwest, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. Its capital and largest city is Dakar.
Geography
Senegal has a land area of approximately 197,000 square kilometers and a population of around 16.5 million people. The country is mostly flat, with a few hills and low mountains in the southeast. The northern part of the country is largely arid and desert-like, while the southern region is more tropical with forests and grasslands. The country has a coastline of approximately 500 km and several large rivers, including the Senegal River, which forms the border with Mauritania.
Climate
Senegal has a tropical climate with two main seasons: a rainy season from May to October and a dry season from November to April. Temperatures range from around 20°C to 40°C throughout the year.
Culture and Society
Senegal is known for its rich culture and diverse ethnic groups. The largest ethnic group is the Wolof, who make up around 40% of the population. Other major ethnic groups include the Fula, Serer, and Mandinka. The official language is French, although many people also speak Wolof and other local languages. Islam is the dominant religion, with around 90% of the population practicing it.
Economy
Senegal has a mixed economy that is heavily dependent on agriculture and fishing. The country is the largest producer of peanuts in West Africa and also exports cotton, cashews, and other crops. The service sector, including tourism and telecommunications, is also a growing part of the economy. Senegal is a member of the West African Economic and Monetary Union and uses the CFA franc as its currency.
Politics
Senegal is a democratic country with a president as the head of state and a prime minister as the head of government. The president is elected for a five-year term and can serve a maximum of two terms. The National Assembly is the legislative body and is made up of 165 members who are elected for a five-year term.
Tourism
Senegal is a popular tourist destination, known for its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and wildlife. Some of the top attractions include the Gorée Island, the pink lakes of Retba, and the Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
