Within CDED, Paulette Marone explored the interactions between tourism and agriculture in Senegal from a sustainable development perspective.
Paulette Marone, researcher at CDED (Université de Perpignan Via Domitia).
Thesis defended in 2025 at the doctoral school École doctorale INTER-MED (Perpignan ; 2011-....).
Referenced in the ABES/STAR network, this thesis meets the rigorous criteria of French higher education.
Senegal, with its diverse landscapes ranging from fine sandy beaches to lush savannas, as well as its historic cities like Dakar and Saint-Louis, and its rich cultural heritage, has become a popular destination for tourists from around the world. Every year, millions of visitors flock to discover the natural beauty of the country, its music, its gastronomy, and its craftsmanship. However, this influx poses major challenges, particularly in terms of the environment and sustainability. Paulette Marone's thesis highlights the tensions between mass tourism and agriculture, a vital sector for food security and the well-being of local populations.
The study's results reveal alarming degradation of agricultural lands, exacerbated by competition for water resources between farmers and tourism stakeholders. For example, in regions like the Petite Côte, where tourism development is booming, farmers are noticing a decline in water quality and a scarcity of water resources necessary for irrigating their crops. Farmers, often marginalized, see their livelihoods threatened by unsustainable tourism practices, such as the construction of hotels and tourist complexes that consume enormous amounts of water. This observation raises crucial questions: how to reconcile economic development and the preservation of natural resources? What model of tourism can be implemented to support agriculture rather than compromise it?
Agrotourism emerges as a potential solution. By integrating visitors into authentic agricultural experiences, such as participating in harvests or traditional cooking workshops, it is possible to create beneficial synergies for both sectors. This could not only generate income for farmers but also raise tourists' awareness of environmental issues and the importance of local agriculture. For example, initiatives such as educational farms allow visitors to understand the food production process while supporting local farmers.
However, implementing this strategy requires strong political will and collaboration among various stakeholders. Authorities must play a key role in regulating the tourism sector and supporting local initiatives. This could involve creating sustainable tourism labels that ensure practices respect the environment and support the local economy. At the same time, it is imperative to strengthen farmers' capacity to adapt to changes induced by tourism. This includes training on sustainable agricultural practices and promoting crops suited to new climatic conditions.
In summary, Marone's thesis urges us to rethink our approach to tourism in Senegal. Rather than viewing it as a threat, it should be seen as an opportunity for sustainable development, provided that the right policies are implemented and close cooperation between sectors is encouraged. Examples from other West African countries, such as Ghana with its community tourism, show that it is possible to develop models that benefit both visitors and local communities. The question remains: will we be able to seize this opportunity before it is too late? It is essential that all stakeholders, from governments to farmers to tourism businesses, unite their efforts to create a future where tourism and agriculture coexist harmoniously, thereby ensuring the sustainability of natural resources and the well-being of local populations.
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Sources and Access
Paulette Marone. Tourisme, agriculture et développement durable au Sénégal. Economies et finances. Université de Perpignan, 2025. Français. ⟨NNT : 2025PERP0015⟩. ⟨tel-05390800⟩