The Network of Women Leaders for Development (RFLD) made a compelling case on May 19, 2026, in Dakar, advocating for enhanced political representation for women in key decision-making roles across institutions and political parties. This push aims to ensure their full and active participation in shaping Senegal’s future and driving its emergence.
Bator Seck, president of the RFLD in Senegal, articulated a clear vision: “Democracy cannot be truly complete as long as women remain underrepresented in decision-making bodies. The political future of Senegal cannot be built without women. It must no longer be built for women, but rather with women.”
Her remarks came during the opening of a seminar focused on women’s political participation in Senegal, an event meticulously organized by the RFLD. This pan-African feminist network extends its reach beyond Senegal, with a significant presence also in Ghana, Gambia, and Benin.
The organization actively engages in various initiatives, including legislative advocacy, community mobilization, and providing funding for crucial local projects. Its impactful work also encompasses championing women’s rights, promoting sexual and reproductive health, safeguarding civic space, and advocating for climate justice.
A concerning dip in female representation
Ms. Seck reminded attendees that Senegal has historically been lauded as a beacon for women’s rights in West Africa. This reputation stems from landmark achievements such as the 2010 parity law, the 2001 Constitution enshrining gender equality, and the nation’s ratification of numerous international human rights conventions.
However, she cautioned that “behind these significant strides, the realities remain troubling.” The snap legislative elections held on November 17, 2024, starkly revealed a regression in female representation within the National Assembly, which saw a decline from 44.2% to 41%. “Even more alarming, only 13% of the lead candidates on party lists were women,” she lamented, highlighting a critical disparity.
Bator Seck further expressed dismay at the sparse presence of women in local governance structures. She pointed out that a mere 18 out of 558 communes are currently led by women, and only three women preside over Senegal’s 43 departmental councils. This situation, she explained, underscores deep-seated structural barriers, persistent cultural resistance, and ongoing inequalities in accessing power, political funding, and media visibility.
The indispensable role of Senegalese women in societal advancement
Despite these challenges, she commended the pivotal role Senegalese women play within society. Their active contributions to the local economy, education, social movements, and peacebuilding efforts are undeniable and vital for national progress.
Mama Diouf Fall, representing the Minister of Family, Social Action and Solidarity, underscored that robust political participation by women serves as a fundamental catalyst for sustainable development, social stability, and effective governance.
Echoing this sentiment, Fatoumata Guèye Ndiaye, Honorary President of the Association of Senegalese Jurists, advocated strongly for improved access for women to executive positions and leadership roles within political parties. She additionally called for a comprehensive revision of the existing parity law to further broaden female presence across all spheres of decision-making.
Bator Seck, president of the RFLD in Senegal, articulated a clear vision: “Democracy cannot be truly complete as long as women remain underrepresented in decision-making bodies. The political future of Senegal cannot be built without women. It must no longer be built for women, but rather with women.”
Her remarks came during the opening of a seminar focused on women’s political participation in Senegal, an event meticulously organized by the RFLD. This pan-African feminist network extends its reach beyond Senegal, with a significant presence also in Ghana, Gambia, and Benin.
The organization actively engages in various initiatives, including legislative advocacy, community mobilization, and providing funding for crucial local projects. Its impactful work also encompasses championing women’s rights, promoting sexual and reproductive health, safeguarding civic space, and advocating for climate justice.
A concerning dip in female representation
Ms. Seck reminded attendees that Senegal has historically been lauded as a beacon for women’s rights in West Africa. This reputation stems from landmark achievements such as the 2010 parity law, the 2001 Constitution enshrining gender equality, and the nation’s ratification of numerous international human rights conventions.
However, she cautioned that “behind these significant strides, the realities remain troubling.” The snap legislative elections held on November 17, 2024, starkly revealed a regression in female representation within the National Assembly, which saw a decline from 44.2% to 41%. “Even more alarming, only 13% of the lead candidates on party lists were women,” she lamented, highlighting a critical disparity.
Bator Seck further expressed dismay at the sparse presence of women in local governance structures. She pointed out that a mere 18 out of 558 communes are currently led by women, and only three women preside over Senegal’s 43 departmental councils. This situation, she explained, underscores deep-seated structural barriers, persistent cultural resistance, and ongoing inequalities in accessing power, political funding, and media visibility.
The indispensable role of Senegalese women in societal advancement
Despite these challenges, she commended the pivotal role Senegalese women play within society. Their active contributions to the local economy, education, social movements, and peacebuilding efforts are undeniable and vital for national progress.
Mama Diouf Fall, representing the Minister of Family, Social Action and Solidarity, underscored that robust political participation by women serves as a fundamental catalyst for sustainable development, social stability, and effective governance.
Echoing this sentiment, Fatoumata Guèye Ndiaye, Honorary President of the Association of Senegalese Jurists, advocated strongly for improved access for women to executive positions and leadership roles within political parties. She additionally called for a comprehensive revision of the existing parity law to further broaden female presence across all spheres of decision-making.
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