In a historic move for Senegal, Anta Babacar Ngom has become the first woman to run for president in over a decade, sparking hope and inspiration across the nation.
Despite facing slim chances of victory, her candidacy is seen as a significant step forward in the long-standing campaign for gender equality in the West African country.
Ngom, a 40-year-old business executive, has been vocal about supporting women and young people, two groups severely affected by economic challenges, unemployment, and inflation. She has pledged to create millions of jobs and establish a bank dedicated to women’s economic independence.
Her campaign has ignited discussions on social media about traditional values and the evolving roles of women in society. Activists emphasize the importance of female representation in the presidential race, regardless of the electoral outcome, as it symbolizes progress in the struggle for equality.
In a recent interview, she told The Associated Press that, “Our country has enormous potential. The natural resources are there, and they can be developed.
“The young girls I meet ask for my support. They do so because they know that when a woman comes to power, she will put an end to their suffering. I’m not going to forget them.”
Few expect Ngom to emerge among the leading candidates for the presidency, but activists say the fact that a woman has made it to the presidential race for the first time in years reflects how women are inching ahead in the struggle for equality.
In 2012, two women ran for president, and while they earned less than 1% of the vote each, analysts say their participation was important. Women in Senegal now make up more than 40% of parliament, one of the highest levels of representation in Africa.
“It’s crucial to strike a balance between modern evolution and respect for our customs. Women must be able to express themselves without hindrance while preserving our cultural identity and valuing the traditional values that have shaped our society,” Ngom told the AP.
Ngom — who runs her family’s food company — has made the economy a focus of her campaign, which most analysts agree is a key concern for the population. Economic hardship has driven thousands of Senegalese to attempt dangerous journeys in search of a better life in the West.
Ngom’s supporters say they are proud to back a female candidate and hopeful for a change in the next government.
“Our children are dying at sea because of unemployment and job insecurity. Unemployment is endemic. Women are tired,” activist Aicha Ba said at a recent rally in support of Ngom.
