Please join us on the evening of Friday, October 10, for a reception and briefing as guests of the Ambassador of Senegal at his elegant residence in the Forest Hills section of DC. The evening promises to be a magnificent medley of 'cosaan' (in the Wolof language of Senegal), which refers to the rich traditions, culture, and history of Senegal. You can also network with fellow Wharton, Harvard, and other B-School alumni at the briefing, with Q&A, plus a reception with food and beverages.
Schedule: 6:30-7:15 pm: Reception
- 8-8:30 pm: Meet Ambassador, other officials.
The western-most country in Africa, Senegal is praised for its beauty and biological diversity. From its urbane capital of Dakar to its fertile southern forest region and farmland, home to over 550 animal species, Senegal boasts lush and vital land as well as expansive deserts. Despite the most visitors in the region, Senegal manages to maintain Africa's finest, most tranquil beaches. Its population of over 10 million is known for its rich diversity, which includes a diverse mix of indigenous ethnic groups, plus European and Lebanese immigrants.
Senegal's culture and arts are as impressive as its marvelous landscape, with a thriving handicraft and tapestry/textile markets and some of the most talented and internationally recognized musicians such as Youssou N'Dour and Toure Kunda. Thies, its second-largest city, hosts a world-famous cooperative-run factory that produces finely-made tapestries based on the paintings of Senegalese artists.
Any description of the Senegalese arts would be incomplete without the introduction of the 'Griots', a caste of praise-singers, musicians, historians, actors, and announcers who preserve Senegalese history and praise the deeds of their patrons. Although the Griots' role has evolved over time, to this day, any traditional gathering is incomplete without the presence of a griot to link with the past and provide entertainment for the present.
Senegal's rich recorded history dates back to the 8th century, when its people were under the rule of the Ghanaian empire. The Djolof kingdom rose and flourished during the 13th and 14th centuries and made first contact with European traders in the 1400's. Senegal later became the focus of contention among colonial powers hoping to gain control of strategic points for the collection of America-bound slaves.
By the end of the 19th century, France controlled Senegal, and Dakar became an important administrative center for West Africa. Following a brief liaison with the French Sudan to form the Federation of Mali, Senegal became an independent republic in 1960.
Following difficult economic problems and financial turmoil, Senegal has become much more peaceful and prosperous with a democratic government. Hopes are high that its current President, Abdoulaye Wade, will continue to promote economic reforms, building upon the revenue generated by the mini-boom in Information Technology-based services in the late 90s.
Another important contributor to Senegal's economy is its $1.15 billion in exports. GDP is now a robust 5%, and inflation is under 2%.
While we cannot guarantee the presence of a Griot, the Reception and briefing promise to be splendid, with delicious food and exciting insights into cosaan, the rich traditions, culture, and history of Senegal. We hope to see you there!
Please register in advance (required) for what promises to be an entertaining and informative evening. Free parking on-street.
Register now online, and print out your receipt. Phone Registration if you prefer (but no receipt), at 1-877-422-8382, available M-F, 9 AM-9 PM Eastern Standard Time.
