Senegal

Overview

Senegal shows an unusual mixture of Moslem and French influence glued upon the African culture. It is the most touristic of all countries in West Africa , with tourists coming mainly from the Latin parts of Europe . Most of the tourists probably come for the sandy beaches, but for travelers with wider interests the country also has many other things to offer both in culture and nature.

Senegal is the westernmost country in Africa. The Gambia nearly dissects it in two parts but Senegal also borders Mauritania , Mali , Guinea-Conakry and Guinea-Bissau . The borders were drawn by the French, British and Portuguese colonialists and do not at all follow ethnic borders. The dominating group in Senegal is the Wolof but there are also Fula, Mandinka, Serer and Jola. All of these also occur in neighbouring countries. Senegal has distinct rainy and dry seasons. The best time to visit the country is during the dry season from December to April.

Clothes are colourful on both women and men, and the country has a rich music tradition. The country has two UNESCO World Heritage Sites related to its history: St. Louis , the first French settlement, and �le de Gorée which once was an important harbour for the export of slaves.

Two of the country�s national parks are also UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The one is Djoudj National Park in the north, considered one of the best bird watching sites in the world. The other is Niokolo-Koba National Park in the southeast...more

History

Archaeological findings throughout the area indicate that Senegal was inhabited in prehistoric times. Islam established itself in the Senegal River valley in the 11th century--95% of Senegalese today are Muslims. In the 13th and 14th centuries the area came under the influence of the great Mandingo empires to the east; the Jolof Empire of Senegal also was founded during this time.

In January 1959 Senegal and the French Soudan merged to form the Mali Federation which became fully independent on June 20 1960 as a result of the independence and the transfer of power agreement signed with France on April 4 1960. Due to internal political difficulties the Federation broke up on August 20 1960. Senegal and Soudan (renamed the Republic of Mali) each proclaimed separate independence. Leopold Sedar Senghor internationally renowned poet politician and statesman was elected Senegal's first president in August 1960.

Since assuming the presidency in 1981 Abdou Diouf has encouraged broader political participation reduced government involvement in the economy and widened Senegal's diplomatic engagements particularly with other developing nations. Even in it's 4th decade of independence Senegal has a very strong government.