Senegal is reeling from the revelations of an alleged child sexual exploitation network that operated over an eight-year period. Faced with the horror of the reported events, UNICEF broke its silence on February 26, 2026, to express its "deep concern over the extremely serious allegations" concerning these acts committed between 2016 and 2024.

The UN agency's statement paints a horrifying picture of the abuse suffered by particularly vulnerable victims. According to the information gathered, "children in highly vulnerable situations have been subjected to repeated sexual abuse, manipulation, and coercion."

Even more appalling, the network allegedly used the disease as a weapon of control. The allegations describe a "deliberate exposure to HIV" that was "intentionally used to weaken children, increase their dependence, and strengthen the control exerted over them." The institution characterizes these acts as "serious and unacceptable violations of fundamental children's rights."

For UNICEF, the response must be immediate and decisive. Recalling that "no child should be exploited or subjected to violence," the organization calls on the Senegalese authorities to conduct investigations with "rigor, independence, and transparency so that justice is served for the child victims."

Beyond the legal aspect, the health and social emergency is also a priority. The organization insists that victims receive "immediate care, appropriate support, and long-term assistance." It also urges the public and healthcare providers to "avoid any conflation or stigmatization related to HIV," reiterating that every child must be protected from discrimination and "receive care with dignity."

UNICEF concludes by reaffirming its commitment to working with the Government to "strengthen child protection systems" and ensure a safe environment for every minor in Senegal.