Residents near Senegal’s iconic Lac Rose are pushing back against a new luxury real estate development they say threatens the fragile ecosystem of the UNESCO-recognized site. The project, branded as an eco-friendly “green city,” has drawn sharp criticism from local communities who argue it will destroy their livelihoods.

Ibrahima Mbaye, president of the Lac Rose Protection Collective, warns that the development will devastate the natural barrier protecting the coast from ocean erosion. This barrier sustains over 6,000 workers whose incomes depend on the lake’s preservation, including salt harvesters, restaurant owners, and tour operators.

“The term ‘green city’ is just a marketing ploy to mislead people into believing this will be a smart, sustainable development,” Mbaye explains. “We know this site cannot support such a project. The sand dunes and coastal protection belt cannot coexist with the massive buildings planned. Tourists come here to see the natural beauty, not concrete structures that will completely disfigure Lac Rose.”

Despite local opposition, construction groundbreaking ceremonies have already been held, signaling to investors that premium apartments and villas are now available for purchase off-plan. The project’s promoters, an Egyptian firm, assure that environmental safeguards will be implemented.

Casa Orascom, the multinational behind the development, claims the project will generate 20,000 direct and indirect jobs while maintaining ecological balance. Their representatives state they are committed to building ‘in harmony with nature’ as per agreements with Senegalese authorities.