Household tasks fall mainly on women in Senegal

In Senegal, most household tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and caring for children or the elderly are primarily handled by women, regardless of their jobs. This situation is common, with few women claiming they are exempt from these responsibilities.

Balancing work and home is challenging for many women

Fama, a mother of two and a bank cashier, describes the difficulty of managing both her job and household duties. She says she feels like she only has "half-days" and that the pressure sometimes causes tensions within the family, even though everyone contributes to expenses.

Men often avoid domestic work despite women's roles outside the home

Many men in Senegal do not participate in household tasks, even as more women enter the workforce. One woman expresses frustration at seeing her husband relax at home after work, while she handles domestic responsibilities, highlighting a belief that men are entitled to rest after their jobs.

Shouldering domestic duties can affect women's careers and well-being

Anna, a salesperson, shares how taking on childcare and household tasks alone has impacted her career. She notes that her ex-husband often avoided helping, and the sacrifices she made did not provide long-term benefits, especially after their divorce, when her professional opportunities were affected.

Societal expectations place domestic responsibilities on women

A midwife and physiotherapist in her fifties explains that women are expected to handle most domestic tasks, even when they have demanding careers. She points out that school officials often contact her about her children's issues, not their father, despite her busy schedule, emphasizing the need for a change in how women's work is valued.

New media outlet focuses on women's experiences in Senegal

Mousso.sn, a media outlet launched in 2025, highlights the daily lives, rights, and diverse realities of women in Senegal. The name "Mousso" means "woman," "spouse," or "partner" in local languages, reflecting the outlet's mission to address the challenges and experiences of women in the region.