Senegal's Saint-Louis keeps alive nearly 200-year-old pirogue racing tradition
In Saint-Louis, Senegal, the fishing district of Guet Ndar hosts traditional pirogue boat races nearly two centuries old, drawing huge crowds each year. Rowers, however, are demanding greater recognition and pay despite the event's popularity.
In the Senegalese coastal city of Saint-Louis, a centuries-old tradition continues to thrive: traditional pirogue boat races with roots stretching back nearly 200 years. The races take place in Guet Ndar, a fishing district known for its deep maritime heritage.
A long and popular event
The race covers a distance of 3.5 kilometres and brings together dozens of rowers competing in traditional wooden boats known as pirogues. The event draws enormous crowds who gather to watch from the shore. Over time, it has grown into more than just a sporting contest — it has become a celebration of local culture, reflecting the close bond between the Guet Ndar community and the sea.
Rowers call for recognition
Despite the race's popularity and the significant money it generates, the competitors themselves receive no pay for taking part. This has left many rowers frustrated, and they are now calling for their sport to receive greater official recognition, along with fairer financial involvement in the revenue the event produces. The athletes stress that their contribution to preserving both a sport and a cultural heritage has so far gone largely unrecognised.
