Resource Richness and Uneven Justice: Environmental Justice Movements in Senegal

Environmental Justice Movements (EJM) in resource-rich African nations have gained prominence as a response to perceived inequalities and injustices related to environmental policies and practices. The research employs a qualitative approach involving interviews with key informants from environmental advocacy groups, community leaders, and government officials to understand local perceptions and actions related to environmental governance in Senegal. Interview data reveal that EJMs in Senegal are particularly concerned with the equitable distribution of benefits derived from natural resources such as water and land, highlighting themes of access and control over these resources among marginalized communities. This study underscores the importance of grassroots environmental activism for promoting justice in resource-rich contexts, suggesting avenues for more inclusive governance models that consider local needs and rights. Policy makers should integrate community participation into resource management strategies to ensure equitable distribution and foster sustainable development practices across Senegal and similar African nations.