Located approximately 20 kilometres from Dakar, Pikine stands as Senegal’s most populous town.
The recent growth of Pikine results from migration—rural residents moving to the capital in search of employment, and city dwellers compelled to settle in the suburbs.
One of Pikine’s swiftly expanding neighbourhoods is Sam Sam, divided into three zones: Sam Sam I, Sam Sam II, and Sam Sam III.
Nestled in a swampy area, over 30% of Sam Sam is waterlogged, worsening during the rainy season (mid-June to mid-October).
The shortcomings of Sam Sam’s neighbourhood
Sam Sam’s neighbourhood lacks an urban plan, with narrow and unpaved streets that contribute to the challenges faced by the residents.
The neighbourhood lacks essential amenities, including:
- Sewerage and drainage
- Refuse collection service
- Street lighting
- Access to drinking water for all inhabitants (water points are shared by several families)
- Adequate medical coverage for everyone
- Sufficient schools and training centres for young people
- Leisure and sports facilities
Sam Sam exhibits higher unemployment and illiteracy rates than the national average.