Senegal

The people of Senegal enjoy a stable democracy, but livelihoods and infrastructure were hard-hit by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. For vulnerable communities, such as those already lacking medical centers, the pandemic-related measures have proved challenging. Women who own small businesses are particularly at risk of financial insecurity; as they lose their sources of income, they’re less able to feed and care for their children well. Youth unemployment is high, and some students face difficulties getting access to remote learning opportunities. With the strong support of partners, World Vision staff in Senegal were part of national efforts to fight the pandemic and provide needed relief to vulnerable families. Reading clubs are helping children learn even without school, and community health insurance systems are making healthcare more accessible. Community savings groups are helping families build resilience to shocks like the economic fallout from the pandemic, and young children’s nutrition is improving with better care and parental knowledge. We’re working with faith leaders to reach people with health information and protective supplies as the country weathers the effects of the pandemic.