Three decades of on-and-off separatist conflict in Senegal's southern region of Casamance have killed thousands of people, displaced tens of thousands more, crippled the rural-based economy and turned large tracts of territory into no-go zones due to landmines.
A ceasefire was declared last year by an important rebel leader, but even if it holds, grievances and resentment linger and underlying socio-economic problems threaten to consign another generation of Casamançais to living like second-class citizens in one of Africa's supposed beacons of democracy.
SPECIAL FEATURES
Senegal has a proud musical heritage, but in the southern region of Casamance they too often sing of pain, suffering and conflict without end. Read more. | “Demining in the Casamance region could be done in six months.” It is a bold claim, but Chris Natale speaks from experience garnished with frustration. Read more. |