Sénégal women’s political representation takes center stage in development debate

In Dakar, the Réseau des femmes leaders pour le développement (RFLD) made a compelling case for amplifying women’s voices in Senegal’s political landscape. Speaking at a high-profile seminar on May 19, 2026, Bator Seck, President of the RFLD, emphasized that the nation’s progress hinges on inclusive governance where women are not just participants but decision-makers.

« A democracy remains incomplete without equitable female representation in leadership roles, » declared Seck. « Senegal’s future cannot be built without women—it must be built with them. » The event, organized by the RFLD—a pan-African feminist network operating in Ghana, Gambia, and Benin—focused on strategies to break down barriers preventing women from occupying pivotal roles in institutions and political parties.

The RFLD’s advocacy spans legislative reform, grassroots mobilization, and funding for local initiatives. Its mission also extends to defending women’s rights, sexual and reproductive health, civic spaces, and climate justice. Yet, despite Senegal’s reputation as a regional leader in gender equality—bolstered by the 2010 parity law, the 2001 Constitution guaranteeing gender equality, and ratification of international human rights conventions—concerns persist.

Declining female representation in leadership

Seck highlighted a troubling trend: the November 17, 2024, legislative elections saw female representation in the National Assembly drop from 44.2% to 41%. « Even more alarming, women headed just 13% of party lists, » she noted. The underrepresentation extends to local governance, where only 18 of 558 communes are led by women, and just three women preside over the country’s 43 departmental councils. These figures underscore deep-rooted structural, cultural, and systemic barriers—from unequal access to political financing to limited media visibility.

The indispensable contributions of Senegalese women

Despite these challenges, Seck celebrated the indispensable role of Senegalese women in driving economic growth, education, social justice, and peacebuilding. She pointed to their vital contributions across sectors, from local economies to advocacy for marginalized communities.

Echoing this sentiment, Mama Diouf Fall, representing the Ministry of Family, Social Action, and Solidarity, framed women’s political participation as a cornerstone for sustainable development, social cohesion, and effective governance.

Fatoumata Guèye Ndiaye, Honorary President of the Senegalese Women Jurists Association, called for urgent reforms to expand women’s access to executive positions and party leadership. She also urged revisions to the parity law to further strengthen female representation in decision-making spheres.