Senegal's unemployment rate rises to 22.9% in Q1 2026, with significant disparities
via SeneNews2 min read
Recent labor market indicators in Senegal present a concerning picture of employment, with the expanded unemployment rate reaching 22.9% in the first quarter of 2026. This represents a 1.2 percentage point increase from 21.7% in the same period of 2025, according to data from the National Employment Survey published by the National Agency for Statistics and Demography. The ANSD highlights significant territorial disparities, with rural areas experiencing a much higher unemployment rate of 32% compared to 17.4% in urban areas. Young people are particularly affected, with an unemployment rate of 28.4% for those aged 15-24, compared to 16.8% for adults. Women are also more vulnerable to unemployment than men across all age groups and regions. The proportion of young people aged 15-24 who are not in employment, education, or training NEET is also a concern, standing at 47.4% in rural areas and 25% in urban areas. This figure is higher for women at 41.8% compared to 25% for men. The overall employment rate was 40.2% in Q1 2026, a slight decrease of 0.2 points from 2025. Urban areas show a higher employment rate at 46.2% compared to 31% in rural areas. Adults have a higher employment rate of 56.7% compared to 29.9% for young people. However, the ANSD noted a slight increase in salaried employment, which now accounts for 43.5% of total jobs, up from 41.6% a year prior. Salaried employment is more common among men than women, and in urban areas compared to rural areas. It is also mor
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Nicolas Jackson, the Senegalese forward, has addressed and denied rumors circulating about his alcohol consumption following Senegal's elimination from the 2026 World Cup. In an Instagram post, Jackson firmly refuted the accusations, stating, "It's false. I don't drink alcohol, I never have. I love this jersey too much and I respect my teammates too much to behave as anything other than a professional." He emphasized his commitment and professionalism, despite the criticism directed at him after the team's early exit from the tournament. Jackson acknowledged the disappointment of supporters but stressed that frustration should not lead to the spread of false information. He concluded his message by affirming his dedication to his career, stating he will continue to work, recover, and return stronger.
Senegalese goalkeeper Mory Diaw has issued an apology to supporters following the elimination of the Lions of Teranga in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup. In an emotional message, Diaw acknowledged his share of responsibility for the team's exit, stating, "I am sorry. Sorry for not being able to take you further." He reflected on his childhood dream of representing Senegal on the global stage and recognized the harsh reality of a goalkeeper's role, where a single action can alter a match's outcome. Despite the disappointment, Diaw emphasized that this elimination should not overshadow the team's efforts and sacrifices. He expressed that the pain will linger but affirmed his unwavering love for the national jersey, promising to return with greater determination. Diaw concluded by thanking Senegalese fans for their support through both victories and defeats, looking forward to future challenges with the Lions.
Five people have died in Togo due to floods caused by heavy rains on June 28 and 29, according to a government statement released on Saturday evening. The Gulf of Guinea experienced particularly intense rainfall at the end of June, marking the beginning of the rainy season, which led to severe flooding in Togo, as well as in C么te d'Ivoire, Ghana, and Nigeria. The provisional toll in Togo includes five deaths, significant material damage, and major traffic disruptions. The floods also "strongly disrupted traffic," with many homes, particularly in the capital Lom茅, inundated. Some households were forced to evacuate and seek refuge with neighbors or relatives. The government stated that rescue operations, assistance to affected populations and communities, and securing at-risk areas are underway, along with support measures for affected families and households, in a spirit of national solidarity. Several political parties and civil society organizations have called on residents in unaffected areas to show solidarity with those impacted. The Dynamique pour la majorit茅 du peuple DMP, a coalition of opposition political parties and civil society organizations, criticized the recurring floods in a statement on July 2, emphasizing the urgent need to rethink urbanization and sanitation policies. Beyond Togo, these heavy rains have also caused fatalities in other countries, with 59 deaths reported in C么te d'Ivoire and twelve in Ghana.