African tribes and cultures in Senegal

Senegal has a number of different tribes or ethnic groups. Each group is unique in a number of ways. Because of this we use the plural when talking about Senegalese cultures, because there’s no such thing as 'the Senegalese culture'.

Common elements

What the tribes share is, speaking in the official language of Senegal a “Joie de vivre” or a joyful disposition.

In spite of having very little in the way of creature comforts and resources, the average inhabitant of Abene and the surrounding area is a joyful and relaxed individual. Dancing, singing and making music are an important part of each of the cultures.

Differences

Among each other the people of Abene often speak their own tribal tongue, Wolof, Diola or Mandinka.

The Wolof are the largest group in Senegal. About 40% of the population belongs to this tribe. However the Casamance, the region where Abene is situated, is dominated by the Diola.

The Wolof communities traditionally have a strictly hierarchical structure. At the top there’s the most important man of the village. At the bottom rung there’s the slaves. Higher classes consist of nobleman and farmers. Contrary perhaps to what you might expect, the position of the female is not at all subservient in this culture.

The Diola are anything but hierarchically minded. Their faith is animistic while most Wolofs are Muslims.

More info

Our unique local contacts enable you to really get to know the local tribes and their specific traditions, especially the Diola-tribe.

Impression