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Obama in Africa: the view from Senegal
Obama will likely emphasize Senegal’s reputation as a peaceful, democratic state in a region increasingly
embroiled in battles with extremists.
Obama arrives with his family at the Dakar, Senegal, airport on Wednesday.
embroiled in battles with extremists.
Obama arrives with his family at the Dakar, Senegal, airport on Wednesday.
DAKAR, Senegal — President Barack Obama lands in Senegal today on his first trip to a country many locals say is a beacon of democracy in the increasingly volatile Sahel region.
A Muslim majority country, Senegal is the only West African nation Obama is visiting on his three-country Africa tour, which also includes stops in South Africa and Tanzania in East Africa. He will be in Dakar from June 26 to 28.
The president, now in his second term, will likely emphasize Senegal’s reputation as a peaceful, democratic state in a region increasingly embroiled in battles with extremists, analysts here say. Security cooperation in the Sahel, where Al Qaeda has taken root, and talks to boost trade are expected to top the agenda.
“Obama’s visit to Senegal is not something tiny, and will have some effects,” said Alpha Waly Diallo, general manager for African Global Business Consulting in Dakar. “As an investor, I would be able to see that Senegal is safe to put my money in.”
The peaceful election of Senegalese President Sall on April 2012, and defeat of 12-year President Abdoulaye Wade, were hailed by many here as a victory for democracy. For Obama to highlight Senegal as a model democratic nation will be beneficial from a business and trade standpoint as well, Diallo says.
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