Being First Progress Report on Senegal: Preliminary Country Profile

Abstract

Senegal is located on the Atlantic coast in West Africa. Senegal has nearly 15 million inhabitants, where an estimated 40 percent are between 0 and 14 years old. It sits on the border of the Sahara desert and the Sub-Saharan forests. The mix of oceanic, arid and humid climates results in a variety of ecosystems throughout Senegal's territories. Agricultural products account for 20 per cent of the country's total merchandise exports. The fishery sector also plays an important role in Senegal's economy by generating about 100,000 direct jobs. Much of the land is threatened by desertification due to overgrazing, deforestation and soil erosion from over-cultivation.