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Senegal culture is reflected in its ethnic roots where 35% of
the population are Wolofs, the Pulaar (20%), the Sereres
(17%), the Diolas (10%) along with the smaller ethnic groups
such as the Mandingues, the Soninkes and the Bassari. Despite these different ethnic groups, Senegal's national
motto is "One people, one aim, one faith". The vast majority of those living in Senegal are Muslims,
making up 92% of the population, with indigenous beliefs
accounting for a further 6% and Roman Catholics the remaining
2%. Although predominantly Muslim
as noted,
Senegal has no official
religion and is very much a tolerant, secular state where the
people adhere to the traditional values of Kersa (respect for
others) and Tegin (good manners).
Senegal has rich
traditions and the importance of greeting in
a Senegal village cannot be
over emphasised, although the ritual can seem strange to
people living in the hurly burly of the west. 'Salaamalekum'
is an almost requirement before further interaction can take
place. If not said, you'll probably be told "s/he went to learn
how to greet" in other words, you're rude!
The values of
Senegal are represented in the colours of the national flag.
The yellow represents the savannah, the green symbolising
forest and hope whilst the red reflects the blood spilt in the
fight for liberty. Senegal's national motto is "One people,
one aim, one faith" and its national identity is deeply rooted
in 'Thiossane', a word used by the Wolof as well as the Serer
(Fulani) ethnic groups, that means "history, tradition, and
culture." The
Wolof people, who live mainly in the north of the country, live
traditional lifestyles built around goat herding and, if you
ever meet a tribesman, the following expression "Degouma
ouolof" will be handy as it means "I don't understand Wolof"! Along the
coastline Serere fishermen take to the sea in their wooden
pirogues returning in the afternoon to sell their catch at
market, whilst the Pulaar occupy the Senegal river valley and
Ferlo region, engaged mainly in farming.
Festivals and celebrations in Senegal
culture are a common occurrence. The birth of each child is
marked with the naming of the baby by the elders
accompanied by the slaying of an animal in line with the
family's wealth, ranging from a chicken to a cow. A party
follows during which a collection is made for the newborn and
this often continues long into the night. Other festivals in Senegal
include the National Holiday celebrating independence day, the
day of Association celebrating wider African culture, Tamkharit ~ the Muslim new year, Maouloud ~ the birth of the
prophet Mohammed and Tabaski as well as Ramadan, Eid and
Leylatoul Khadre. Sengal culture also recognises Easter,
Ascension, Pentecost, Assumption and All Saint's Day as well
as Christmas.
The sabar, the most common instrument in Senegal, is a feature of most of these occasions with sabar drumming accompanied by dancing and is in use in
virtually every music performed, particularly at special
occasions, such as births, weddings and baby naming
ceremonies. Other musical instruments within Senegal culture
include the Xalam, a popular stringed instrument played
throughout Senegal; the Kora, a harp like lute; the Tabala,
wooden kettle drums and the Tama, a drum placed under the arm
and hit with a curved stick. The video (below) explores Senegal culture and traditions in more depth.
Senegal Culture: Volunteer in Senegal
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Senegal Culture: Life in Senegal
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Senegal Culture: Child Sponsor Senegal
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Senegal Culture: Senegal Country Profile
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