Senegal’s HIV/AIDS rate is low at 0.3% due to effective therapy and youth involvement. The Sangomar oil field has achieved strong production results. Illegal wildlife trade relates to mystical beliefs, posing risks to endangered lions. The country raised 33 billion FCFA in the UEMOA market, and justice workers filed a strike notice over unmet demands since 2018.
Senegal’s current HIV/AIDS prevalence rate is 0.3%, attributed to 70% access to antiretroviral therapy (ARV) and significant youth involvement, as noted by Safietou Thiam, Executive Secretary of the National Council for the Fight Against AIDS. During the Youth Mobilisation Week Against AIDS launch in Dakar, Thiam commended the government’s extensive public engagement and commitment that contributed to maintaining low infection rates.
In regards to oil production, Woodside Energy reported successful initial results from the Sangomar field, which cost approximately $5 billion. The deepwater field began production last year, achieving over 94% capacity in nine weeks and has operational water and gas injection systems. The performance of the S500 reservoirs has been strong, adding significant reserves, while the S400 injector-producer wells have also exceeded expectations.
Illegal wildlife trade in Senegal is closely tied to cultural beliefs, particularly concerning mystical “gris-gris” talismans that fuel demand for big cat parts. Niokolo-Koba National Park, the last extensive habitat for the critically endangered West African lions, is under increasing threat from poaching. Rangers are actively monitoring for poachers as fresh tracks indicate ongoing wildlife peril.
In financial news, Senegal raised 33 billion FCFA on the UEMOA financial market on February 14, 2025. The General Directorate of the Treasury and Public Accounting secured the funds through Treasury Bills and Bonds, aimed at meeting budgetary requirements. The operation saw bids amounting to 52.98 billion FCFA, with a successful absorption rate of 62.29% for the retained amount.
The National Union of Justice Workers (UNTJ) in Senegal has filed a strike notice due to ongoing unmet demands since 2018. Their key grievances include the reclassification of clerks, recruitment of non-clerical officers, the provision of housing allowances, and the opening of professional exams for registry administrators. The notice was made in accordance with constitutional provisions, highlighting the seriousness of their claims.
In summary, Senegal reports a low HIV prevalence rate largely due to effective antiretroviral therapy and youth engagement. Significant developments in the Sangomar oil field have produced promising initial results. Meanwhile, cultural beliefs are driving illegal wildlife trade, threatening endangered species. Financially, Senegal has successfully raised substantial funds to meet its budgetary needs, while justice workers push for reforms through a strike notice. These issues reveal the country’s ongoing challenges and achievements across health, environment, and governance sectors.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
