Sénégal women’s political voice must grow for nation’s progress

The Réseau des femmes leaders pour le développement (RFLD) made a compelling case on May 19, 2026, in Dakar, urging for greater inclusion of women in Senegal’s political leadership and institutional decision-making processes. The call came during an intensive workshop focused on advancing women’s participation in governance and national development.

« A democracy remains incomplete when women are sidelined from key decision-making roles. Senegal’s political future cannot be built without women—it must be built with them, not merely for them, » declared Bator Seck, President of the RFLD in Senegal. The event marked the launch of a high-level seminar on women’s political engagement, organized by the RFLD, a pan-African feminist network active in Ghana, Gambia, and Bénin.

The organization is widely recognized for its advocacy in legislative reform, grassroots mobilization, and funding of local initiatives. Its mission also extends to protecting women’s rights, advancing sexual and reproductive health, safeguarding civic space, and addressing climate justice.

Behind the progress lies a persistent gender gap

Senegal has long been praised as a regional leader in gender equality, thanks to landmark policies such as the 2010 Parity Law, the 2001 Constitution that enshrines gender equality, and the ratification of international human rights conventions. Yet, despite these achievements, women’s representation in public office continues to lag.

According to Bator Seck, the November 17, 2024 early legislative elections revealed a worrying decline: women’s representation in the National Assembly dropped from 44.2% to 41%. « The situation is even more troubling when we look at electoral leadership, » she noted. « Only 13% of candidate lists were led by women. »

She further highlighted the stark underrepresentation at the local level: just 18 out of 558 communes are led by women, and only three women preside over Senegal’s 43 departmental councils. These figures underscore deep-rooted structural barriers, cultural resistance, and persistent inequalities in access to political power, financial resources, and media visibility.

Women drive Senegal’s development—but their leadership must be amplified

Despite these challenges, Bator Seck emphasized the indispensable role women play in Senegal’s social and economic fabric. She pointed to their vital contributions in local economies, education, social justice movements, and peacebuilding efforts across the country.

Mama Diouf Fall, representing the Minister of Family, Social Action, and Solidarity, echoed this sentiment, stressing that women’s political participation is not just a matter of justice—it is a cornerstone of sustainable development, social stability, and good governance.

Adding to the discourse, Fatoumata Guèye Ndiaye, Honorary President of the Senegalese Women Jurists Association, called for urgent reforms to expand women’s access to executive positions and political party leadership. She also advocated for a revision of the Parity Law to further strengthen women’s presence in decision-making spheres.