Senegal is facing a potential disruption of essential services as trade unions prepare to launch a 72-hour general strike on Wednesday over rising living costs, declining purchasing power and the government’s failure to implement previously reached agreements.
The planned industrial action follows a demonstration by about 150 people in Dakar, where workers marched at the call of trade union federations to demand action on outstanding agreements and measures to address their financial concerns.
The protest reflects growing frustration among workers over the rising cost of living and what union leaders describe as inadequate engagement by the authorities.
Sara Konaré, secretary general of Senegal’s National Union of Petroleum and Gas Workers, said the turnout demonstrated increasing unity among trade unions.
She accused the authorities of failing to engage meaningfully with workers over their demands, as unions prepare to intensify pressure through the planned nationwide strike.
The proposed action has also raised concerns about its potential impact on healthcare, particularly for patients who depend on public medical facilities.
Ndeye Seck Fall, who manages a dialysis centre, warned that the strike could severely disrupt healthcare delivery and leave patients with limited options for continuing treatment.
She said many Senegalese would struggle to afford private healthcare if public services were paralysed, potentially worsening the difficulties faced by vulnerable patients.
The industrial action comes as Senegal prepares to host the Youth Olympic Games, placing additional pressure on the authorities to address the unions’ grievances and prevent disruptions.
With workers demanding the implementation of previous agreements and relief from mounting financial pressures, the planned strike presents a challenge for the government as it seeks to maintain essential services while responding to growing labour unrest.
