We’ve made the decision and it all kicks off after Easter. What is Easter in the Christian tradition? A time of rebirth and new beginnings making it an ideal time for my children and me to embark on our own journey of renewal. The destination? Senegal – a land brimming with potential and promise, the perfect setting for the next exhilarating chapter in our life’s story. This wasn’t a decision made on a whim. On the contrary, it’s the culmination of meticulous planning and thoughtful consideration. As Easter symbolises a time of rejuvenation and fresh starts, so too does our impending move to Senegal, marking the dawn of an exciting new era for me and my family.
As a mother with roots in Sierra Leone and a life carved out in South East London, the choice of our family’s new home hasn’t been easy. After much reflection and research, we have decided that Senegal, with its vibrant culture and emerging opportunities, will be our new home. In this newsletter, I give you 5 reasons behind this significant life decision and why Senegal stands out as the perfect destination for my family.
Familiar Ties
Moving to a new country can be a daunting prospect, especially when navigating the complexities of language barriers and cultural differences. However, the value of relocating to a country where a close family member is already established cannot be overstated. This is a significant reason behind my decision to move to Senegal as an English-speaker.
My older sister lives in Dakar and having her there is akin to having a guiding star in unfamiliar territory. She provides an immediate sense of familiarity and belonging in a new environment, easing the usual stresses of relocation. Her presence means having someone who understands both the nuances of our culture and the intricacies of Senegalese society. This unique advantage allows for a smoother transition, offering insider knowledge on everything from navigating local bureaucracies to understanding social etiquettes.
Furthermore, her established network in Senegal opens doors to social and professional connections that would otherwise take years to build. In essence, moving to Senegal, where my sister is already well-integrated, offers a softer landing, a ready-made support system and a sense of security that significantly enhances the experience of starting a new chapter in a foreign land.
Economic Growth and Opportunities
Senegal’s economy is one of the fastest-growing in Africa, thanks to its stable political climate and a series of ambitious development plans. The government’s focus on infrastructure, renewable energy, tourism and technology presents numerous opportunities for professional growth and investment. As a mother looking to provide the best for her children, the prospect of thriving in an economically buoyant environment is incredibly appealing. The recent developments in sectors like agriculture and fishing and the discovery of oil and gas, further reinforce the potential for economic prosperity in Senegal.
Becoming Bilingual
The move to Senegal opens an invaluable door for my children to become bilingual, at the very least, offering them an immersive environment to learn French, one of Africa’s most spoken languages. Living in Senegal, where French is the official language, means that they will naturally absorb the language through daily interactions, be it at the market, in the neighbourhood or with new friends. This natural immersion is far more effective than classroom learning alone, as it allows for real-world practice and understanding of the cultural nuances of the language.
Being bilingual in English and French will not only enhance their cognitive abilities and cultural understanding but also broaden their future academic and professional opportunities. The ability to communicate effectively in both languages will open doors in numerous fields globally, giving them a significant advantage in an increasingly interconnected world.
Education System
Education is a top priority for any parent and Senegal offers a range of options that cater to diverse educational needs. According to the World Bank, in 2018 Senegal’s primary education completion rate was only 56% and illiteracy is still a problem in the country. Over the past decade, Senegal has seen a gradual improvement in its literacy rates. In 2011, the adult literacy rate was approximately 50.1%. By 2021, it had increased to 56.3%. This improvement can be attributed to various factors, including government initiatives to enhance educational infrastructure, increased access to education in rural areas and a greater emphasis on adult education and literacy programs. The consistent upward trajectory in literacy rates reflects Senegal’s commitment to improving educational standards and accessibility for its population.
Senegal is home to several international schools providing top-notch education following either French or American curricula. Unfortunately, my search for a school offering the British curriculum within Senegal hasn’t been successful. Consequently, I have opted to enrol my children in a British online school. This arrangement ensures they continue with an educational system they are accustomed to, while also having the unique opportunity for French immersion in their daily life in Senegal. This blend of familiar education and new linguistic experiences presents a perfectly rounded approach to their learning journey.
Political Stability
Political stability and safety are paramount when selecting a new country to call home and Senegal distinctly shines in this aspect within the West African region. Renowned for its political stability, Senegal sets a commendable example with its track record of peaceful transitions of power especially when compared to Sierra Leone. This stability is rooted in the country’s strong democratic traditions and institutions that uphold the rule of law, ensuring that governance is not only fair but also accountable. Such a political environment fosters a sense of trust and security among its citizens and residents.
I want to live in a society where legal rights are respected and where there is recourse to fair and impartial adjudication in case of disputes. Last year Senegal witnessed widespread unrest when a popular opposition leader was criminally charged, tried and jailed. This situation tested the nation’s commitment to legal rights and due process. However, since then, tranquillity has been re-established and the country appears to be progressing peacefully towards the elections scheduled for February. This return to calm and the orderly march towards elections are reassuring signs of the resilience and stability of Senegal’s legal and political systems.
The stability in Senegal also translates to a safe living environment. The country is known for its low crime rates, especially when compared to regional standards. The government’s effective law enforcement policies and community policing initiatives have played a significant role in maintaining public order and safety. This creates a reassuring environment for families, where daily life is not overshadowed by the fear of crime or instability.
In Conclusion
Senegal presents itself as an ideal destination for my family. It offers a blend of safety, cultural economic opportunities and a welcoming community. Our move to Senegal is more than just a change of location; it’s a commitment to a new way of life.
We are excited about the prospect of immersing ourselves in the vibrant Senegalese culture, contributing to its growing economy and being part of a community that values hospitality and diversity. As we prepare for this new chapter, we look forward to the adventures and experiences that await us in the beautiful country of Senegal.
