The inhabitants of Bacco Boof, one of the most populated villages in the commune of Tattaguine, have raised their voices to denounce their difficult living conditions, marked by the absence of electricity in several neighborhoods, the lack of drinking water, the inadequacy of sanitary infrastructure and the difficulties of road access.

The president of the Bacco Boof-DEBO movement, Oumar Diop, denounced a situation which he considers incomprehensible at a time when Senegal aims to succeed in its digital transition and economic development.

"We are here not to ask for a favor, but to demand a fundamental right. At a time when our children should be studying to build the Senegal of tomorrow, a large part of our community still lives in darkness," he said.

According to him, several villages in the area remain without electricity, including Roff, Khaoul, Moussante, Keur Gor Loume, Gandiaye, Mbaffaye, Bassisse, and Keur Miniane. He particularly deplores the inauguration of electricity poles without any actual connection.

"Electricity is not a luxury, it is a necessity. We cannot understand how a mayor can inaugurate poles without lights and continue to make promises he does not keep," he denounced.

Beyond electricity, Oumar Diop also pointed to the lack of drinking water which severely affects local populations and hinders agricultural and economic activities.

"Without water, we cannot produce. We cannot keep young people here. We absolutely must solve this problem," he insisted.

Road infrastructure is also a major concern for residents. According to him, several bridges and roads are in a state that considerably complicates travel.

"A truck cannot pass here, even a bus encounters difficulties. It's unacceptable," he lamented.

From a health perspective, the situation is just as worrying. Residents are denouncing the lack of a functional health post capable of meeting the needs of a constantly growing population.

"There is no hospital here in Bacco Boof. We only have a small health center which cannot serve the entire population. At certain times, the doors are closed even though the emergency services do not give any warning," he explained.

There is similar concern regarding the education sector where the village school does not have a perimeter wall, exposing students to various risks.

Pedro Pape, an artist and student, also denounced the inequalities observed in the electrification of the village. "Why are some neighborhoods electrified and others left in darkness? It's abnormal," he declared.

The young student particularly emphasized the consequences of the energy deficit on students' studies.

"Many children are forced to revise by candlelight or flashlight. This penalizes their academic success," he stressed.

He also mentioned the daily difficulties faced by women forced to travel long distances to obtain water.

Faced with this situation, the people of Bacco Boof have made a solemn appeal to the President of the Republic, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, as well as to the competent authorities, in particular to the rural electrification directorate (ASER), so that sustainable solutions are provided to the problems of electricity, water, health and infrastructure which are hindering the development of their locality.