Within ESO, Mohamadou Samb explored the impact of tourism development on aging populations in Saly, Senegal.
Mohamadou Samb, researcher at ESO (Université de Caen Normandie).
Thesis defended in 2025 at the doctoral school École doctorale Sociétés, temps, territoires (Angers).
Referenced in the ABES/STAR network, this thesis meets the rigorous criteria of French higher education.
Tourism development in Saly, Senegal, raises crucial questions about access to healthcare for aging migrant populations. This region, which increasingly attracts older European residents, is becoming a convergence point where economic development and specific health needs intersect. It is imperative to examine the available healthcare infrastructure and its adequacy to meet the requirements of this clientele, often accustomed to high health standards.
The challenges are numerous and complex: how to ensure access to quality care for individuals who, due to their age, may have greater medical needs? Indeed, chronic diseases, preventive care, and medical emergencies are major concerns for this population. For example, a study conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) revealed that older adults are more likely to suffer from cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and other conditions requiring regular medical follow-up.
Research conducted by Mohamadou Samb highlights the shortcomings of health services in Saly. Aging European residents often find themselves facing inadequate infrastructure, a lack of qualified personnel, and unacceptable waiting times. These elements underscore the urgency of adapting local policies to meet this growing demand. Decision-makers must ask fundamental questions: how to reform the healthcare system to make it inclusive and responsive to the needs of an aging population?
The qualitative approach adopted by Samb, including semi-structured interviews and direct observation, provides valuable insights into the expectations of residents. The results reveal that tourism development, while it may offer economic opportunities, also poses challenges for public health. Health infrastructure must evolve to accommodate a population that seeks not only leisure but also care suited to their condition. For example, the establishment of specialized clinics for the elderly could be a viable solution, as could strengthening training for local medical staff.
It is also essential to consider the post-pandemic context in which this study takes place. Public health challenges have been exacerbated, making access to care even more critical for aging migrant populations. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted existing gaps in health systems, particularly in emergency management and prevention. Decision-makers must act quickly to prevent these shortcomings from turning into health crises.
A reflection on health and development policies is therefore necessary to ensure a peaceful future for Saly, both for local residents and for new European arrivals. This could include initiatives such as establishing partnerships between local health facilities and international organizations to benefit from the necessary expertise and resources. Additionally, the development of an adapted transport network to facilitate access to care could also be considered.
Finally, it is crucial to involve local communities in this process of development and improvement of health services. By integrating the perspectives of residents, whether local or migrants, decision-makers can better understand real needs and develop tailored solutions. In summary, tourism development in Saly should not come at the expense of the health of aging populations, but rather in synergy with their needs, in order to build a sustainable and inclusive future.
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Sources and Access
Mohamadou Samb. Amenagement touristique à Saly et accès aux soins des populations européennes vieillissantes en migration au Sénégal. Géographie. Université d'Angers; Université de Ziguinchor; Université Iba Der Thiam de Thiès (Sénégal ; 2005-..), 2025. Français. ⟨NNT : 2025ANGE0008⟩. ⟨tel-05130611⟩