Building Democracy in Africa: Did Senegal Pass the Test for Democracy?

Senegal is the only black African country never to have had revolution or a military coup. Since its independence from France, the country has established a multitude of political parties and regular organization of presidential and legislative elections. As result there have been 10 presidential elections and four democratically elected presidents. Today, Senegal is seen as a rare model of democracy in a continent better known for confl ict and coups d’états. This essay • Discusses how Senegal has managed to stay much more democratic than other countries in the region. • Draws lessons from Senegal’s experience.