SeneNews has ranked the most influential personalities in Senegal at the moment. A ranking that combines both the influence of a person on the community, but also the power and impact on the everyday life of Senegalese. Thus, the influence, the power, the confidence, the hope and the impact on the daily life of the Senegalese were the various criteria added to classify these 10 men and women whose popularity is not subject to any dispute. A ranking dominated by religious guides, but also by politicians.
1. Serigne Mountakha Mbacké, Khalif General of the Mourides
On the socio-religious level, its influence is undeniable. He is the head of the most powerful brotherhood in a 95% Muslim country. His “Ndigueul” are scrupulously followed by millions of faithful, who dedicate him admiration, respect and obedience. Also, it symbolizes the sacredness of religion in Senegal.
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Politically, he speaks little, if ever, but his influence is such that politicians flock to his house to curry favor with him. Having him by his side is a guarantee of a large electorate. It combines wisdom, authority, power, aura and influence. This allows him to be at the head of this ranking.
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2. Ousmane Sonko, Leader of Pastef
Opponent number 1 in Senegal for a few years, Ousmane Sonko represents youth, passion, carelessness and above all the future. Over the years, it has taken on great importance in the Senegalese political and public space. His influence and popularity were especially demonstrated in March 2021. When the people rose up for him, the Republic almost wavered. Today, he is considered by some as the hope to launch Senegal on the ramps of emergence.
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3. Macky Sall, President of the Republic
President of the Republic of Senegal for 11 years, Macky Sall sees his reputation declining one year from the end of his mandate and with the controversy over his possible 3rd candidacy. Admittedly disputed, it remains the first authority of this country. Head of State, boss of the Superior Council of the Judiciary, Chief of General Staff of the Armed Forces, Macky Sall has more impact than anyone else on the lives of Senegalese. His smallest decisions can have repercussions for the Senegalese at the top of the ladder to the bottom.
4. Serigne Babacar Sy Mansour, Khalif General of the Tidjanes
Courage is the key word that designates Serigne Babacar Sy Mansour. Although erased, he never hesitates to tell his truths at the appropriate time and to call to order those who cross “the red line”. At the head of the Tidjanes, he is the uncompromising guardian of the virtues of Islam and instills in the community the fundamental principles of the religion which are Truth, Peace and Justice. A message that goes beyond the Tidjane community and which is addressed directly to all human beings, of any religious denomination.
5. Sheikh Mahi Niass, General Khalif of the Niassenes
We know him today as the Caliph of the Niassene and guarantor of peace not only in Senegal but also in the sub-region. Beyond his status as a religious guide, Cheikh Mahi Niasse is also an accomplished intellectual. Lecturer for years, he distinguished himself in the largest universities in Africa and around the world. His works still inspire the new generation.
6. Me Abdoulaye Wade, former President of the Republic
President of the Republic from 2000 to 2012, Abdoulaye Wade has lost none of his aura and his influence on the socio-political terrain in Senegal. Although reserved lately, he remains the main force of the PDS and one of the most respected Senegalese.
7. Sadio Mané, international footballer
Today, the dream of all young football fans in Senegal and Africa is to become the “new Sadio Mané”. A feat that the child of Bambaly owes not only to his exceptional performance on the field, but also his behavior and actions outside. With his winning penalty in Cameroon, he gave Senegal their first African Cup of Nations.
8. Youssou Ndour, artist, businessman
The greatest Senegalese singer, Youssou Ndour has offered himself another career, as a press boss. Founder of the Future Media Group (GFM), one of the largest in West Africa, Youssou Ndour has acquired an unparalleled importance in Senegal by an artist. During the Presidential in 2012, he was one of the major players, after having supported the current President of the Republic, Macky Sall, in the second round.
9. Babacar Ngom “Sedima”, businessman
Founder of the Sedima “empire”, Babacar Ngom is one of the richest people in Senegal. He has also been the president of the Senegalese Investors Club (CIS) in recent years, giving way to Pierre Atepa Goudiaby in early 2023. In addition to having a major role in employment and the private sector, he also plays an important score in peace in Senegal, far from the cameras.
10. Marième Faye Sall, First Lady
It is the invisible part of the iceberg that is the Palace of the Republic. Very accessible thanks to its Servir le Sénégal Foundation, it helps several Senegalese from underprivileged strata. She is also the link between the Senegalese and the president. To access Macky Sall, it is sometimes imperative to go through Marième Faye Sall.
