Country Information
Sovereign State | Yes |
Country Codes | SN, SEN, 686 |
Official Name | Republic of Senegal |
Continent | Africa |
Capital | Dakar |
Government Type | Semi-presidential Republic |
Currency | West African CFA Franc (XOF) |
Calling Code | +221 |
Member Of | United Nations, African Union, Economic Community of West African States, Organisation of Islamic Cooperation |
Population | Approximately 16.7 million |
Total Area | 196,722 km² |
Highest Point | An unnamed feature near Nepen Diakha (581 meters, 1,906 feet) |
Lowest Point | Atlantic Ocean (0 meters, 0 feet) |
GDP Per Capita | USD 1,420 |
Life Expectancy | 68 years |
Internet TLD | .sn |
Senegal National Anthem
Pincez Tous vos Koras, Frappez les Balafons (Strum your Koras, Strike the Balafons)
Everyone strum your koras, strike the balafons.
The red lion has roared.
The tamer of the savanna
Has leapt forward, scattering the hyenas to the wind.
Flags of Neighboring Countries
History of the Senegal Flag
The national flag of Senegal was officially adopted on August 20, 1960, soon after gaining independence from France. The flag is a tricolor consisting of three vertical bands of green, yellow, and red.
The green color represents Islam, which is the predominant religion in the country. It also symbolizes hope and fertility of the land. The yellow middle band stands for natural wealth and the country’s arts. Yellow is often associated with the country’s most significant natural resource, gold. The red color symbolizes the struggle for independence, African progress, and unity. Red is a traditional color of sacrifice and determination.
At the center of the yellow band, there is a green star, known as the “Star of Unity”, symbolizing African unity and hope for a peaceful future. The use of the star is a common Pan-African symbol, seen in the flags of other African countries as well.
The flag’s design is influenced by the French Tricolor and Pan-African colors, which were popular symbols during the decolonization period in Africa. Since its adoption, the flag of Senegal has become a symbol of national pride and sovereignty. It is prominently displayed in public buildings, at national events, and represents the nation in international contexts. The flag is a symbol of Senegal’s cultural identity, its historical journey to independence, and its aspirations as a nation.