The main objective of the study is toprovide the Government of Senegal the analyses andinformation to implement policies towards reducing the ruralpoor's vulnerability. While during the latest years,economic growth reduced poverty in the country, this hasbeen less noticeable among the rural population, whoactually account for 6 million people over a totalpopulation of 10 million. The rural economy remainsessentially agrarian, with a 65 percent of its populationliving in poverty. Natural risks are intimately linked tothe agrarian nature of the rural economy, and to its"Sahelian" environment. Drought cycles reduceagricultural production, thus such impact varies accordingto the agricultural season, the agro-ecological zone, thetype of crops, and the presence - or not - of irrigationsystems. In addition, insects, and the disease these carry,affect plants and animals, adding to the natural risks.Economic risks occur, as elsewhere, due to changes in theagricultural production and trade systems, thus affectingrevenues and the acquisition power. Moreover, the reportspecifies rural populations are further exposed to healthshocks, aggravated by the obstacles in accessing healthservices. Education, particularly of rural children, issubject to several risks: total absence of schoolattendance, drop-outs during the school year, or inabilityto achieve sufficient basic competencies. As for socialrisks, the main sources within rural areas, are on one hand,the regional conflict in Casamance, and on the other, crime,robberies, property conflicts, and violence, affectingcommunities, and productivity. Among the recommendations,the report stipulates financial services and revenuediversification in rural areas are the main issues requiringa framework on policy, and public spending. A multi-sectoralvision of risks should help identify vicious cycles, whileits eradication will require the collaboration of various sectors.
PDF
download
878987797
028-85220240
