Studies at UCAD reveal contaminated food, unsafe water, and pesticide presence in Senegal
via SeneNews2 min read
Findings presented at the 5th Scientific Day on Food Safety at UCAD have highlighted significant concerns regarding the quality of certain products consumed daily in Senegal. Globally, foodborne illnesses affect 866 million people annually, causing 1.52 million deaths and the loss of 57.1 million healthy life years. Studies presented revealed "deficient sanitation" in the processing of spices, with the presence of potentially toxigenic bacteria, indicating a need for better regulatory oversight. Alarmingly, an investigation into sachet water in Dakar and Mbour, analyzing 100 samples from 50 brands, found fecal contamination in a large proportion of the products. Only 2% of samples were deemed satisfactory and 2% acceptable for consumption, while 82% were contaminated and did not meet microbiological standards for potability, rendering them unsafe. Researchers are calling for urgent regulation in this sector. Another study on chili pepper crops in the Niayes area showed that 72% of soil samples contained at least one pesticide residue, with five approved insecticides detected, indicating significant contamination in this agricultural zone. Ibrahima Sy, who presided over the opening ceremony, warned about the rise of chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and obesity, often linked to dietary habits and food quality. He advocated for increased public awareness, especially among youth, to promote healthier and safer eating. Bara Ndiaye noted that contamination risks can oc
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Senegal's national football team, the Lions of Teranga, still has a chance to qualify for the round of 16 in the 2026 World Cup despite a 3-2 defeat against Norway. Favorable results from other groups have opened a path for Senegal, which must defeat Iraq to secure a spot among the best third-placed teams. Scotland's 3-0 loss to Brazil means Scotland finished third in their group with 3 points and a goal difference of -3. A win for Senegal, even by a narrow margin, would allow them to surpass Scotland. South Korea, after losing 1-0 to South Africa, also finished third with 3 points but a goal difference of -1. To advance past South Korea, Senegal needs to beat Iraq by at least two goals. These outcomes are positive for Serigne Saliou Dia's team, as a victory against Iraq could see them overtake two already-ranked third-placed teams. Senegal would then need two more groups out of the remaining eight to produce less successful third-placed teams. Attention will be on Groups E and G. In Group E, Germany has 6 points, Ivory Coast 3 points, and Ecuador and Curaçao each have one point. In Group G, Egypt has 4 points, Iran and Belgium each have 2 points, and New Zealand has one point. These groups could yield third-placed teams with low point totals. Senegal's path is clear: beat Iraq, ideally by a comfortable margin, and then hope other group results confirm their qualification as one of the best third-placed teams for the round of 16.
Must ReadAmadou Barry, a 41-year-old phone repairman from Dounguel and a self-proclaimed member of Pastef-Bosséa, has been arrested and taken into police custody in Saint-Louis. The arrest follows a public prosecutor's self-referral after a video went viral on social media. In the video, Barry allegedly made virulent threats against the President of the Republic, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, as well as against magistrates and the prosecutor. The investigation is ongoing to determine the exact circumstances and potential legal charges.
Must ReadHorizon Sans Frontières HSF has issued an urgent alert regarding the detention conditions of over 100 Senegalese nationals at Dar Naïm prison in Nouakchott, Mauritania. The organization reports that detainees and their families describe overcrowded, unsanitary conditions, a lack of access to medical care, and inadequate support for sick prisoners. Testimonies suggest that many Senegalese detainees, including those with chronic illnesses, are not receiving regular medical consultations or essential medications, posing serious threats to their health. Families in Senegal are experiencing significant distress due to a lack of information about their imprisoned relatives' health. HSF is calling on Senegalese authorities to intervene with Mauritanian authorities to ensure immediate medical access for sick detainees, allow an independent evaluation of detention conditions, uphold the fundamental rights of the incarcerated Senegalese citizens, and explore repatriation or humanitarian measures for vulnerable cases. HSF emphasizes that protecting Senegalese citizens abroad is a national responsibility.