SENEGAL

The most happening hang in West Africa, tropical Senegal is lauded for its beauties both natural and ephemeral. From its urbane capital, Dakar - many travellers' favourite amongst the larger African cities - to its fertile southern region of forest and farmland, the Casamance, much of its lands are lush and vital, especially when compared to the expansive deserts that surround it. Senegal's arts are just as lively, with a thriving textile market and an entourage of internationally known native musicians, such as Youssou N'dour and Touré Kunda. Altogether, Senegal's attractions bring in more visitors than any other country in the region. (Lonely Planet)
The name Senegal is said to come from the Wolof name of the dugout canoe, as it was mispronounced by visiting Portuguese sailors in the middle of the 15th century.

Official name: Republic of Senegal
Capital City: Dakar
Currency: CFA Franc
Language: French (official), Wolof, Pulaar, Jola, Mandinka
Main Religion: Islam
National Holiday: April 4th

Senegal lies between latitude 12.5 - 16.5 North and longitude 12-17 West, at the Western most extension of the African continent, and has a total of 700km of coastline (Atlantic)

The colonial system imposed the French language as the official language of Senegal. It has been retained but Wolof is the "lingua franca" throughout the country and many people speak Wolof as well as their own mother tongue.

While ability in speaking French is useful for participants on the workshop, it is not essential. Classes are taught in either English or French depending on participants' requirements. Pape Mbaye and his family and friends speak english while many people in Yoff and Dakar have a basic grasp of the language. And communicating with Senegalese people becomes easier over the course of the workshop as you learn to speak in a mixture of French, English and Wolof!

Baobab

The most remarkable tree is the impressive baobab (adansonia digitata): 40-60 ft. tall and up to 30 ft. large. It plays an important role, especially for the Wolof and the Serer. It offers edible pulp, medicine, rope, soap, fertilizer, canoes, etc. In ancient times, its hollow trunk would offer shelter for the traveler or for the runaway in trouble. Along with the tamarind tree, it was also the favorite spot for the genies and the spirits.

The largest trees have a sacred status. Standing alone in the middle of the village, or scattered among smaller trees and shrubs, or else, grouped in dense small clusters, it is one the most common sights in Sénégal.