In a dramatic turn of events near Senegal’s capital, residents and environmental advocates are rallying against a high-end real estate project that threatens the fragile ecosystem of Lac Rose. The proposed «green city» development, which includes luxury villas and studios, has sparked fierce opposition from local communities who argue the project will devastate their livelihoods and the natural landscape.
local voices sound alarm over ecological risks
Ibrahima Mbaye, president of the Arr Lac Rose collective, is leading the charge against the project. «This so-called green city is nothing more than a marketing ploy to lure investors,» he asserts. «The Lac Rose isn’t just a scenic spot—it’s a vital natural barrier against coastal erosion and rising sea levels. More than 6,000 people depend on its preservation, from salt harvesters to tour operators. Once construction begins, tourism will collapse, and the lake’s fragile balance will be destroyed.»
Mbaye’s concerns are echoed by local workers whose incomes rely on the lake’s health. Salt collectors, restaurateurs, and tour guides fear the project’s luxury infrastructure will alienate visitors seeking an authentic experience. «Tourists don’t come to see skyscrapers,» he adds. «They come for the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Lac Rose.»
developers defend project’s sustainability claims
The Egyptian multinational Casa Orascom, behind the initiative, insists the development will proceed without harming the environment. In a statement, the company emphasized its commitment to preserving the site while creating 20,000 jobs through direct and indirect employment. «We are fully equipped to build responsibly,» a spokesperson stated, though details on mitigation strategies remain sparse.
The controversy highlights a growing tension between Senegal’s push for economic growth and the preservation of its most cherished natural treasures. As construction equipment prepares to move in, protesters are mobilizing through social media campaigns, community meetings, and direct appeals to government officials, determined to halt the project before irreversible damage is done.
