What is the capital of Senegal?

The capital of Senegal is Dakar. Located on the Cape Verde peninsula, Dakar is the westernmost city on the African continent. Founded in 1857 by the French, Dakar became Senegal’s capital in 1960, when the country gained independence from France.

Dakar is the political, economic and cultural center of Senegal. The city is home to the main government institutions, as well as the headquarters of numerous international and regional organizations. Dakar is also a major seaport, facilitating international trade and contributing to the country’s economy.

The city is known for its cultural richness and artistic dynamism. Dakar hosts major cultural events, such as the Biennale de Dakar (Dak’Art), one of the most important contemporary art exhibitions in Africa. The city is also famous for its music, notably mbalax, a popular Senegalese musical genre that fuses traditional rhythms with modern influences.

Among Dakar’s iconic sites is the island of Gorée, a historic site marked by the slave trade, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Monument de la Renaissance Africaine, a 49-meter-high statue, is another important landmark, symbolizing the rebirth and progress of the African continent.

Dakar is also an educational center with several universities and research institutes. Cheikh Anta Diop University is the country’s largest and most prestigious, attracting students from all over the region.

Dakar, the capital of Senegal, is a dynamic and cultural city, rich in history and art. It plays a central role in the country’s politics and economy, and is an important crossroads for cultural exchanges in West Africa.