Rising tensions over foreigner checks in Senegal

Sénégal: a wave of foreigner checks raises concerns about hospitality

A late evening in Dakar. Amadou Bangoura, a 30-year-old Beninese student, had just finished his workout at the Liberté 6 gym when two police officers flagged him down. His papers were in order, yet he was left shaken by the encounter. “I wondered what could happen next,” he admitted. This incident is not an isolated one.

The Direction de la police des étrangers et des titres de voyage has intensified checks targeting West African nationals in the capital and its outskirts. Between June 30 and July 8, 490 individuals were stopped, with 36 found to be in irregular situations and referred to judicial authorities.

Growing unease over administrative practices

Civil society leaders warn that the current approach is fostering a climate of “permanent suspicion towards foreigners.” In a July 13 statement, they condemned arbitrary arrests, “excessive administrative demands,” and “prolonged detentions.”

Amadou’s experience reflects a broader trend. Despite holding a valid residency permit, he described the process as “humiliating and unjustified.” Critics argue that such measures undermine Senegal’s reputation for warm hospitality, known locally as Teranga.

Xenophobic undertones in public discourse

The crackdown coincides with a rise in hostile rhetoric online, particularly on TikTok, where Guinean migrants—comprising over 40% of Senegal’s foreign residents—are unfairly accused of “stealing jobs” from locals. This narrative echoes similar divisive campaigns seen elsewhere in Africa.

As Senegal assumes the presidency of ECOWAS, the timing of these operations has drawn scrutiny. While authorities insist the goal is to “enhance public safety,” many view the initiative as a step backward for a nation long celebrated for its openness.