Senegal

USAID's Strategy in Senegal

Senegal is a democratic and moderate Muslim nation committed to fighting terrorism. One of the most stable countries in an unstable region, and a model of religious and ethnic tolerance, it plays a key role in conflict resolution in West Africa and beyond. A founder of the New Partnership for Africa's Development, the country is an advocate for private sector-led growth and trade as the essential engines of Africa's economic growth.

Senegal's economy, in contrast, remains weak and is not growing fast enough to provide jobs for the rapidly growing population, more than half of which are under 20 years old. While economic growth averaged 5 percent from 1995-2002 and is estimated at 6.4 percent in 2003, largely due to excellent rainfall and consequent high crop yields, the country is struggling to put in place the institutional reforms that are necessary to sustain long term growth.

More than 50 percent of all adults are unable to read or write, but rising primary school enrollment (76 percent in 2002) will eventually reduce illiteracy. High under-five child mortality (142.5 deaths per 1,000 live births in 1999) and a high incidence of malaria are among the factors that limit life expectancy to 52 years. While HIV/AIDS prevalence (1 percent in 2003) is among the lowest in Sub-Saharan Africa, Senegal's total fertility rate remains high (5.2 in 1999); use of modern contraceptives is limited (8 percent among married women in 1999); and maternal mortality is among the highest in the sub-region.

It is in the U.S. national interest to assist Senegal to enhance the productivity of its people and, in so doing, create jobs for unemployed youth, improve access to education and health care, and further institutionalize democracy. If poverty is not visibly reduced, the country risks the sort of destabilization of many of its neighbors. The pro-Western orientation and moderate Islam practiced by 95 percent of the population could also be challenged by radical elements.

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