(SenePlus) – Tensions linked to land disputes are taking a worrying turn in Senegal, according to the latest data from the General Directorate of Territorial Administration. No fewer than 307 cases of conflict have been recorded nationally, seriously threatening community cohesion.
Dakar, epicenter of disputes
The Senegalese capital is the epicenter of land conflicts with 58 cases recorded, including 23 disputes between individuals for access to land. The problems of subdivision (9) and delimitation of villages/communes (6) are also worrying. With 16 conflicts between populations and 4 community conflicts, Dakar concentrates the greatest tensions.
Kolda, Fatick, Kaolack: the rural spearhead
In rural areas, the situation is equally alarming. Kolda counts 27 disputes, including 8 major community conflicts. Fatick (23 cases) and Kaolack (23 cases) are also experiencing a worrying increase in land tensions between individuals (15 and 13 cases respectively).
Thiès, a powder magazine with multiple foci
With 35 cases recorded, Thiès ranks among the most affected regions. Disputes take various forms: 11 subdivision problems, 8 land demarcation disputes and as many conflicts between individuals. A real multifactorial powder keg.
Ziguinchor, the territorial delimitation in question
In this sensitive border region, tensions arise mainly from problems of delimitation of villages and municipalities (9 cases out of 26). A situation which is reminiscent of past independence aspirations in Casamance.
Saint-Louis, Sédhiou, secondary but real homes
Although less affected, these regions suffer from a significant number of disputes (22 and 29 cases). In Saint-Louis, it is mainly subdivision problems (5) and specific conflicts (8) that pose a problem. Sédhiou is mainly confronted with conflicting territorial boundaries (15 cases).
One observation emerges in light of these different figures: no region of Senegal is spared from land crises with many faces. A challenge to the power of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye.
