Independence Day in Senegal commemorates April 4, 1960, when the country gained independence from France as part of the Mali Federation. Even after Senegal became a fully independent republic later that year, April 4 was chosen to mark the nation's liberation.

When is Independence Day?

Independence Day in Senegal is celebrated every year on April 4.

The following is the list of Independence Day from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Independence Day?

Senegal was one of the earliest footholds of European colonial powers in West Africa. The French began settling in Saint-Louis (1659) and Gorée Island, eventually establishing Senegal as a French colony by the 19th century. Senegal became a key administrative and trading hub for French West Africa (Afrique-Occidentale française, AOF).

In the push for decolonization after World War II, African states began demanding greater autonomy.

On April 4, 1959, Senegal joined with French Sudan (now Mali) to form the Mali Federation, an experiment in African unity supported by France. The federation was granted independence from France on April 4, 1960.

The Mali Federation was short-lived. Internal disagreements led to its collapse in August 1960.

Senegal declared itself a sovereign independent republic on August 20, 1960, but the date of April 4 was retained as the official Independence Day, since it marked the original freedom from French colonial rule.

Léopold Sédar Senghor, a poet, philosopher, and statesman, became the country's first president.

Independence Day is Senegal's most important national holiday. The holiday emphasizes both national pride and Senegal's commitment to democracy and African unity.