Dakar, Senegal – (African Boulevard News) – Thousands of people have signed a petition urging the Senegalese authorities to resume the Dakar-Ziguinchor maritime service, which has been suspended since June, amid escalating political tensions. The halt in passenger and freight transport between the two cities has left residents and business owners in dire straits, prompting an outcry for the service to be reinstated.
The maritime service, previously operated by three vessels, provided a critical lifeline for both passengers and traders, facilitating travel and the transportation of goods. However, without any official explanation from the authorities, the sudden suspension has had a severe impact on the local economy and the livelihoods of those dependent on the service.
According to reports, the decision to suspend the Dakar-Ziguinchor maritime service may be related to the political tensions that have been simmering in the region. As a result, concerned citizens and stakeholders have taken matters into their own hands by launching a petition to put pressure on the authorities to lift the suspension.
At the time of writing, the petition has garnered thousands of signatures from individuals across the country and beyond. One signatory, Fatou Sow, expressed her frustration, saying, “The suspension of the maritime service has caused significant inconvenience and financial losses to traders like myself. We demand that the authorities explain their decision and find a swift resolution to this issue.”
With the petition gaining momentum, it is hoped that public pressure will encourage the relevant authorities to address the concerns of the affected communities and swiftly resume the Dakar-Ziguinchor maritime service. The resumption would not only provide much-needed relief for travelers and businesses but also demonstrate a commitment to the people’s welfare.
Industry experts and stakeholders have also voiced their support for the resumption of the maritime service. Mamadou Diouf, a well-known business leader in the region, emphasized its importance, stating, “The Dakar-Ziguinchor maritime service is vital for the economic development of both cities and the surrounding areas. Its suspension has had a devastating impact on trade and tourism, exacerbating the already challenging situation faced by many.”
As the petition gains traction and the voices of the affected individuals and stakeholders grow louder, there is growing hope for a swift resolution to the suspension of the Dakar-Ziguinchor maritime service. The authorities are urged to take immediate action to address the concerns raised and restore this vital transportation link.
In the face of political tensions, the resumption of the maritime service would not only alleviate the hardships faced by the affected communities but also send a message of stability and resilience. The people have spoken, and it is now up to the authorities to listen and act accordingly to restore this critical lifeline that connects Dakar and Ziguinchor.
