Delphine Durand Sall unveils gender dynamics in Guet Ndar, revealing the central role of women in the community

In her thesis defended at the University of Paris Nanterre, Delphine Durand Sall highlights the gender and kinship dynamics in Guet Ndar, a fishing neighborhood in Saint-Louis, Senegal. This ethnographic research demonstrates how women, as key actors, structure community life, transforming the habitat into a complex social space.

Delphine Durand Sall's ethnographic study reveals that the habitat in Guet Ndar is a social construction influenced by kinship and gender relations. Women play a central role in organizing cohabitation networks, thus shaping not only the homes but also the community spaces. This dynamic raises questions about power relations and solidarity within this coastal community.

Through the observation of daily interactions, the author shows that men gather in separate spaces, while women occupy the heart of community life. Although precise figures are not available, the findings underscore the importance of these dynamics for the resilience of coastal communities in the face of environmental challenges.

The implications of this research are significant for policymakers and investors. By valuing gender and kinship dynamics, it is possible to strengthen the resilience of coastal communities while creating economic opportunities. A collaborative and proactive approach is necessary to maximize the impact of investments in this growing sector.

« « Women in Guet Ndar play a central role in organizing community life, transforming the domestic space into a true microcosm of Wolof society. » »

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