Navigating Morocco-Senegal ties: a post-CAN perspective in Dakar

A slight sense of apprehension accompanied my arrival in Dakar. The reason? The Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) final. As many know, this particular match has reportedly soured the relationship between Morocco and Senegal, a sentiment that feels undeniably present.

Amadou, a courteous and smiling taxi driver in his fifties, quickly discerned my Moroccan origin. Our conversation meandered through various topics until he concluded with: «Despite everything, Senegal and Morocco are brothers…».

That phrase, «despite everything», carries significant weight. Intended to convey fraternal bonds, it paradoxically hints at underlying tensions. Can a single football match truly fracture deep-rooted connections, or did it merely serve as a catalyst, the final straw revealing pre-existing fragilities in Morocco Senegal relations?

The CAN topic surfaces unexpectedly in conversations, like a hidden undercurrent ready to disrupt the atmosphere. In the bustling markets of the Plateau district downtown, while haggling for local fabric, the merchant quoted prices seemingly based on my appearance. «It’s 13,000 XOF (CFA francs) per meter». Offers of 10,000, then 11,000, were rejected. I then tried the classic appeal: «We are your brothers from Morocco!». This invocation of brotherhood, or a heartfelt «assalamou alaykoum» to signal shared faith, typically eases negotiations and lowers prices across Africa. Not this time. The merchant stiffened, suddenly agitated: «Ah, if it’s Morocco, then it’s 20,000 XOF!»

«l faut espérer que tous ces sentiments troubles s’effaceront bientôt d’eux-mêmes, au Sénégal comme au Maroc…»

This was his way of saying, «I’m no longer selling!». We were, in essence, indirectly asked to leave the market, almost like unwelcome intruders.

A human rights activist, dedicated to combating female genital mutilation, interjected during a discussion: «Please, release our brothers detained in Morocco; what are you waiting for?» The plea for the release of Senegalese supporters arrested and tried after the infamous final was a recurring refrain, echoed by several other individuals.

Some openly admitted to boycotting Moroccan-owned businesses. They spoke candidly, without the diplomatic niceties or sales pitches. Yet, to lighten the mood, they would often add: «In Senegal, we truly love Moroccans…».

While this affirmation is likely sincere, it feels incomplete. The ellipsis invites unspoken sentiments: anger, frustration, misunderstanding, and even hurt. One can only hope that these complex emotions will eventually dissipate, in both Senegal and Morocco.

Governments and federations will ultimately find common ground and reconcile, as shared interests and reason tend to prevail. However, the emotional wounds of individuals heal differently and often more slowly.

My stay in Senegal was, as they say, brief and intense. It was certainly affected by the aforementioned tensions, but not to the point of being ruined. Many Dakar residents, with their genuine warmth, infectious joy, and sincere friendship – without any unspoken reservations – made the visit truly memorable.