Travel Restrictions Cause Massive Economic Issues in Senegal

“Hear our cries,” is the silent mantra of the Senegalese people. As we enter another year, the economic crisis in Senegal deepens, leaving families and children in extreme hardship. The impact of COVID-19 on Senegal’s economy has reversed years of progress in the fight against hunger and poverty.

One of the most affected sectors is tourism, a key driver of Senegal’s economy. With international travel restrictions, the country has experienced a Senegal tourism decline, reducing revenue streams that once supported local businesses, food markets, and essential services. Additionally, disruptions in trade and imports have made it harder for communities to access food, clean water, and hygiene products.

How the Economic Crisis is Affecting Families

Much of sub-Saharan Africa has limited natural resources and relies on regional trade for essential goods. For example, rice—a staple in Senegalese cuisine—is mostly imported. With trade slowing down, food insecurity has drastically increased, and families are struggling more than ever to afford daily meals.

Our Senegal-based team continues to witness the agonizing reality of those impacted by this crisis. The lack of food and basic necessities is an everyday battle, and without intervention, the situation will only worsen.

A Call for Support

With millions facing food shortages and economic hardship, urgent action is needed. By providing assistance, we can help alleviate the suffering of families who are struggling to survive.

Let’s stand together to support the people of Senegal.

In the age of pandemic shortages and supply-chain issues, a reliance on global imports for the kinds of staples that support basic needs creates pressure on prices for families, exacerbating pandemic-induced hunger. Essentially, they have limited food supply and the food that is present is out of reach because of the inflated prices caused by the increased demand.

For over four years, MAP’s preschool nutrition programs have helped support the development of bright young minds in Senegal. Nearly 900 children a day are fed through our schools. While we have expanded our support to provide key staple foods and hygiene supplies directly to families to help them survive this pandemic. We still have so much work to do, and we need your continued support to do so. Children and families are counting on all of us to be their life-line.

To enable us to continue feeding hundreds of vulnerable children every day in Senegal and across the globe, please consider joining our Vital Rescue Collective today.