An attack which reveals a worrying fragility
The robbery of the Riu Baobab hotel, which occurred on the night of Saturday January 18 to Sunday January 19, highlighted the limits of security on the Senegalese Petite-Côte. The criminals, heavily armed, took a sum estimated at 12.1 million CFA francs, sowing panic in this key tourist area. This incident marks a worrying turning point, not only for tourist operators, but also for the authorities, faced with the skyrocketing rise in crime in this area, which is destined to become one of the flagships of the national economy.
This is not a simple news item, but a symptom of a deeper problem. While Senegal has embarked on a vast tourism development plan, aiming in particular to transform Pointe Séréne into a center of excellence, insecurity is undermining the efforts made. This drama poses the fundamental question: what is the point of investing in modern infrastructure if security, an essential prerequisite for any tourism development, is neglected?
The Petite-Côte has always occupied a special place in Senegal’s tourism strategy. With the arrival of major brands such as the RIU group and the establishment of luxury hotels such as the Riu Baobab, the region is positioning itself as an essential destination for foreign visitors, mainly Europeans.
These massive investments, reaching billions of CFA francs, are not only intended to strengthen Senegal’s attractiveness on the international market. They also aim to create local jobs, improve infrastructure and stimulate a regional economy focused on hotels, restaurants and seaside activities. However, the insecurity that is taking hold in the area risks compromising these ambitions, by endangering the confidence of tourists and investors.
The expectations placed on this project are not only economic. The success of Pointe Séréne could serve as a model for other tourist areas in the country, thus consolidating the vision of Senegal as a major player in tourism in West Africa. But at present, this vision seems hampered by approximate management of security issues.
Half-hearted efforts on security
The Senegalese state had nevertheless taken measures to secure the area. A modern gendarmerie brigade was inaugurated in Nianing, with new buildings intended to accommodate personnel capable of meeting the needs of a booming tourist area. However, this initiative was quickly devoid of its substance: the brigade today only has one all-terrain vehicle and one quad to cover a territory extending over tens of kilometers.
In terms of human resources, the situation is just as critical. With insufficient staff, the Nianing gendarmerie is unable to conduct regular patrols or respond quickly to emergencies. A situation which becomes all the more problematic when we consider that this area welcomes thousands of tourists, luxury residences, and even influential personalities, such as the Franco-Senegalese actor and filmmaker Omar Sy.
Crime on the rise
Security lapses in the area have paved the way for an increase in criminal activities. Burglaries, robberies and assaults in broad daylight have become commonplace, transforming Petite-Côte into a real black spot for residents and visitors.
A recent incident in Nianing illustrates this trend: a foreign national was violently attacked in broad daylight, an act which testifies to the growing audacity of criminals. The latter take advantage of the inability of law enforcement to intervene quickly, leaving residents and tourists with a constant feeling of insecurity.
This situation directly harms the image of the area, until now perceived as a place of serenity and relaxation. It also affects the confidence of investors, who are beginning to ask questions about the viability of their projects in an area where the State struggles to guarantee minimum security conditions.
The economic challenges of a security crisis
Tourism represents one of the main pillars of the Senegalese economy, contributing 7% to the national GDP and employing thousands of people. La Petite-Côte, with its popular seaside resorts such as Saly, Somone and Pointe Sarene, plays a central role in this strategic sector.
-However, insecurity could have devastating consequences:
1. Flight of tourists : Safety is one of the first criteria of choice for international tourists. A reputation tarnished by criminal acts could lead to a drastic drop in arrivals.
2. Decline in investments : Hotel operators and foreign investors could turn away from Senegal, considering the region as risky for their activities.
3. Impact on local employment : Fewer tourists means less revenue for hotels, restaurants, and tour guides, putting thousands of jobs at risk.
What solutions to stop the spiral?
To reverse this worrying trend, urgent and concrete measures must be put in place:
• Strengthening workforce and material resources : The Nianing Brigade must have additional vehicles, modern equipment (drones, radios, surveillance cameras), and sufficient personnel to effectively cover the area.
• Collaboration with the private sector : Hotel operators could be involved in financing security measures, such as the installation of video surveillance systems or the recruitment of private security guards.
• Comprehensive plan for securing Petite-Côte : The State could develop a strategic plan integrating not only the gendarmerie, but also local communities, for a coordinated response to security challenges.
• Awareness campaigns : Inform residents about ways to prevent criminal acts and encourage them to collaborate with law enforcement.
A litmus test for the future of tourism in Senegal
The development of Pointe Séréne and other communities on Petite-Côte represents much more than an economic project. It is a showcase of modern Senegal, capable of attracting tourists, generating substantial income, and competing with major African destinations.
However, without a firm and immediate response to the security crisis, these ambitions risk collapsing, leaving operators and citizens feeling wasted. More than ever, the State is called upon to act to restore confidence and guarantee a peaceful future for this region with immense potential.
