People in Senegal
May 12, 2023
Senegal is a West African country with about 18 million inhabitants. The country is known for its rich culture, diversity of ethnic groups, and natural beauty.
Demographic composition: Senegal has a relatively young population, with an average age of 19 years. Approximately 43 % of the population is under 15 years of age and only 3 % is over 65 years of age. Life expectancy is 67 years for men and 70 years for women. The rate of natural increase is 2.5 % per year and the fertility rate is 4.7 children per woman. Senegal also has a high level of urbanization, with more than half of the population living in cities. The largest city is Dakar, the country's capital and most important city, with more than 3 million inhabitants.
Linguistic diversity: Senegal has one official language, French, which is used by the government, education, and media. However, most residents speak one or more of more than 20 local languages that belong to different language families. The most widespread language is Wolof, which is spoken by about 40 % of the population and serves as a language of communication between different ethnic groups. Other common languages are Pulaar, Serer, Mandinka, Soninke, and Diola. Some Senegalese also speak Arabic or English.
Religious confession: Senegal is a predominantly Muslim country, with more than 90 % of the population practicing Islam. Most Muslims follow the Sunni branch of Islam and belong to one of four brotherhoods: tidjaniya, mouridiya, qadiriya, or layeniya. These brotherhoods play an important role in the religious and social life of Senegalese people and have a strong influence on the country's politics and economy. Apart from Muslims, about 5 % of the population is Christian, mostly Catholic, and the rest practice traditional African religions or no religion at all.