Geography and Nature
Where is Senegal located?
Senegal is located in West Africa, bordered by Mauritania to the north and northeast, Mali to the east, Guinea to the southeast, and Guinea-Bissau to the southwest. It also has a coastline along the Atlantic Ocean to the west.
What type of ecosystem dominates the northern part of Senegal?
The Sahel, a semi-arid region with savannas and dry forests.
Which island off the coast of Senegal is known for its volcanic landscape and unique wildlife?
Goree Island, home to giant geckos and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What is the highest point in Senegal?
Mont Bambou, rising to just 577 meters (1,893 feet).
The Senegal River forms a natural border with which neighboring country?
Mauritania.
Lake Retba, also known as Lac Rose, is known for its vibrant pink color. What causes this phenomenon?
High concentrations of salt-loving bacteria called halobacteria.
History and Culture
In which year did Senegal gain independence from France?
1960.
Which Senegalese poet and politician was the first president of the country?
Léopold Sédar Senghor.
What is the most widely spoken language in Senegal?
Wolof, followed by French.
The Festival Mondial des Arts Nègres, held in 1977, became a landmark event for which cultural movement?
Negritude, celebrating African identity and cultural expression.
Senegalese wrestling, known as "lucha senegalaise," is a popular national sport. What distinctive feature sets it apart from other forms of wrestling?
Wrestlers wear talismanic charms called "gris-gris" around their waists.
Food and Music
Which national dish of Senegal combines fish, rice, and vegetables in a flavorful sauce?
Thiéboudienne.
What type of peanut-based sauce is a common condiment in Senegalese cuisine?
Maafe.
Mbalax is the most popular genre of Senegalese music. What instruments are characteristic of this style?
Talking drums (tama) and sabar drums.
Youssou N'Dour is a world-renowned Senegalese singer who gained international recognition through a collaboration with which pop star?
Neneh Cherry, with their hit song "7 Seconds."
Sabar drumming is often accompanied by dancing. What is the name of the Senegalese dance style known for its dynamic footwork and hip movements?
Ndombolo.
Economy and Current Events
Senegal's economy is largely based on which activities?
Agriculture, fishing, and tourism.
Which city is the economic and administrative capital of Senegal?
Dakar.
What is the currency of Senegal?
The West African CFA franc (XOF).
Senegal is known for its vibrant democracy and relatively stable political system. Who is the current president of the country?
Macky Sall (as of January 2024).
One of Senegal's major development challenges is climate change. What specific effects are impacting the country?
Drought, rising sea levels, and erosion.
Bonus Questions
What animal is featured on the Senegalese coat of arms?
A lion, symbolizing bravery and strength.
The island of Gorée was once a major center for the slave trade. What historical landmark stands as a reminder of this dark period?
Maison des Esclaves, a former slave house.
Senegalese cinema has produced several acclaimed films. Which director won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival for his film "Moolaadé"?
Ousmane Sembène.
Senegalese football (soccer) is also a source of national pride. Which Senegalese player was named the 2002 African Footballer of the Year?
El Hadji Diouf.