Senegal is one of the most stable and democratic countries in the region. It has a diverse economy that includes agriculture, fishing, mining, tourism, and services. In recent years, the country has experienced GDP growth of around 6% per year, an above-average performance in sub-Saharan Africa. Economic growth was unfortunately interrupted by the COVID-19 epidemic, which negatively affected development in the country.

So what are prices and wages in Senegal? According to the World Bank, the average income per inhabitant in Senegal is about 1,500 USD per year. According to the International Labor Organization (ILO), the minimum wage in Senegal is about 60,000 CFA francs per month, which is about USD 100. This wage applies to employees in industry, construction, and commerce. For employees in agriculture and other services, the minimum wage is lower, about 40,000 CFA francs per month, which is about 67 USD.

The whole situation is also complicated by the high unemployment rate, which is officially around 20%, but in reality, it is much higher. Around 50% of the population work in agriculture and often live off what they grow and the surplus they can sell. Especially for young people, it is often very difficult to find a job.

Food, transportation, and accommodation prices are generally lower than in Europe or North America, but not by much. Although it is often assumed that it is cheap in Africa, this is not true. For example, a regular meal in a restaurant costs around 10 USD, a kilo of rice around 1,2 USD, and a liter of petrol around 1,4 USD.

Despite the fact that the majority of Senegalese live in conditions that are difficult for us to imagine, their country is called the land of Teranga - that is, hospitality, which has an extraordinary meaning here and is deeply rooted in Senegalese culture. A friendly welcome is guaranteed here, as Senegalese cling to traditional values and respect for others. If you are interested in the life of ordinary people in, for example, a Senegalese village, we are happy to take you there and promise that you will not be disappointed. These meetings, which are always conducted with reverence and respect on both sides, are often beneficial and enriching for both guests and hosts.