The subtle tensions impacting Morocco-Senegal relations in Dakar

A slight sense of unease accompanied my arrival in Dakar. The reason? The Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) final. Its aftermath, widely discussed, had reportedly soured the fraternal ties between Morocco and Senegal, a sentiment that felt undeniably present.

Amadou, a courteous and smiling taxi driver in his fifties, quickly discerned my Moroccan origin. Our conversation meandered, touching on various subjects, before he concluded with a poignant remark: «Despite everything, Senegal and Morocco remain brothers…».

That «despite everything» carried significant weight, inadvertently suggesting a strain on the very brotherhood it aimed to affirm. It prompted a critical question: could a single football match truly unravel deep-seated bonds? Or did it merely act as a catalyst, the final drop overflowing a vessel already precariously full, exposing underlying fragilities?

The topic of the CAN final seemed to lurk beneath every interaction, a shadow ready to dampen the mood. In the bustling Plateau district bazaars, while bargaining for local fabric, a merchant quoted prices seemingly based on perception. «That’s 13,000 XOF (CFA francs) per meter.» Attempts at 10,000, then 11,000, were met with refusal. We then deployed the classic appeal: «We are your brothers from Morocco!» This invocation of kinship, often coupled with a heartfelt «assalamou alaykoum» to signify shared faith, typically eases negotiations and reduces prices across Africa. Not this time. The merchant stiffened, his demeanor hardening. «Ah, if it’s Morocco, then it’s 20,000 XOF!»

«May these unsettling sentiments soon dissipate, both in Senegal and Morocco…»

It was a clear signal: «I am no longer selling to you!» We were, in essence, subtly urged to depart the bazaar, almost as if unwelcome.

Later, a human rights activist, deeply involved in combating female genital mutilation, interjected during a conversation: «Please, release our brothers detained in Morocco; what are you waiting for?» The plea for the release of Senegalese supporters arrested and tried following the controversial final resonated as a recurring theme, echoing in subsequent discussions.

Some individuals openly admitted to boycotting Moroccan-owned businesses. Their candor was striking, devoid of the diplomatic niceties or sales pitches one might expect. Yet, almost as an afterthought to soften the blow, they would add: «In Senegal, we hold great affection for Moroccans…».

This declaration, while likely genuine, felt profoundly incomplete. The ellipsis invited unspoken sentiments: anger, frustration, misunderstanding, and even lingering hurt. One could only hope these complex emotions would naturally subside over time, both in Senegal and Morocco.

While governments and sports federations will inevitably find common ground, guided by mutual interest and reason, the emotional scars left on individuals heal differently, often at a much slower pace.

My visit to Senegal proved, as expected, both brief and impactful. Though touched by these discernible tensions, the experience was far from ruined. Many Dakarois residents, through their inherent warmth, vibrant spirit, and genuine, unambiguous friendship, made the stay truly memorable.