Senegal reports a low HIV/AIDS prevalence of 0.3% due to effective public health measures. The Sangomar oil field has achieved significant production milestones. The illegal big cat trade is threatened by mystical beliefs. Additionally, the country raised 33 billion FCFA in the UEMOA financial market while justice workers announced a strike notice over unmet demands since 2018.
Senegal’s HIV/AIDS prevalence rate remains notably low at 0.3%, attributed to a widespread 70% access to antiretroviral therapy and strong national commitment, particularly among the youth. Safietou Thiam, the Executive Secretary of the National Council for the Fight Against AIDS, credited government efforts and public engagement for sustaining these low infection rates during the Youth Mobilisation Week Against AIDS launch in Dakar.
In another significant development, Woodside Energy reported strong initial results from the first-phase development of the Sangomar deepwater oil field in Senegal, which cost approximately $5 billion. The field’s production began last year and quickly reached over 94% capacity. Water injection and gas systems are now fully operational, enhancing the field’s production capabilities and reducing connectivity risks expected with the project’s reserve migration anticipated for 2025.
The illegal trade of big cat parts in Senegal is exacerbated by mystical beliefs associated with “gris-gris” talismans, as detailed in a recent Panthera report. In Niokolo-Koba National Park, home to critically endangered West African lions, rangers are actively combating poaching threats, which continue to rise despite conservation efforts in this vital habitat spanning over 3,500 square miles.
On February 14, 2025, Senegal successfully raised 33 billion FCFA through the UEMOA financial market. This fundraising was conducted by the General Directorate of the Treasury and Public Accounting through the issuance of Treasury Bills and Bonds for budgetary needs, achieving a coverage rate of 176.6% amid high demand from investors.
In labor news, the National Union of Justice Workers (UNTJ) filed a strike notice citing unaddressed demands since 2018, including a call for reclassification of clerks and the recruitment of non-clerk officers. Their grievances highlight essential issues such as the opening of professional exams for registry administrators and the request for a housing allowance, submitted under Senegal’s constitutional provisions.
In summary, Senegal continues to showcase significant advancements in health and economic sectors, with a remarkably low HIV/AIDS prevalence rate, successful oil field developments, and proactive conservation efforts. Nonetheless, challenges persist, such as labor disputes within the justice sector and illegal wildlife trade. Addressing these issues will be crucial for further progress and sustainability.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
