Perceptions of local communities on Hann Bay and solutions for sustainable development

*Corresponding author: Serigne Abdoul Aziz NDAW Copyright © 2025 Author(s) retain the copyright of this article. This article is published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License 4.0. Perceptions of local communities on Hann Bay and solutions for sustainable development Serigne Abdoul Aziz NDAW 1, 2, *, Serigne FAYE 1, Ramatoulaye Mbengue NDIAYE 1 and Mouhamadou Bachir DIOUF 1 1 Faculty of Sciences, Water and Water Quality Doctoral School (EDEQUE) – Cheikh Anta Diop University, Dakar, Senegal. QES Consulting International. 2 Botany-Biodiversity Laboratory, Department of Science and Technology, Cheikh Anta Diop University, BP 5005, Dakar Fann, Senegal. GSC Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2025, 33(01), 310-325 Publication history: Received on 27 August 2025; revised on 17October 2025; accepted on 20 October 2025 Article DOI: https://doi.org/10.30574/gscbps.2025.33.1.0380 Abstract Socio-economic surveys conducted among local populations and workers in industrial units made it possible to involve key stakeholders in the decision-making process and to integrate their opinions, expectations, suggestions, and recommendations. The proposed solutions focus primarily on protective and preventive measures, enforcement of regulations, communication and awareness campaigns, acquisition of appropriate equipment, and monitoring– surveillance systems to support the rehabilitation of Hann Bay and ensure its long-term sustainability. These surveys were carried out in 2022 across eleven sites located in the municipalities of Hann-Bel Air, DalifortFoirail, Thiaroye-sur-Mer, Sicap Mbao, and Mbao. They provided a participatory platform that shed light on both the environmental and socio-economic challenges facing Hann Bay. The findings revealed that chemical pollution remains present in the bay, which may lead to contamination of fishery resources or push fish populations further offshore. The degradation of ecological conditions could also explain the frequent mortality of juvenile fish, particularly in areas such as Hann Marinas, Hann Pêcheurs, and Cité ISRA (see field observations, July 2022, Serigne Abdoul Aziz Ndaw). In this perspective, the study goes beyond a simple diagnostic to also propose an integrated set of solutions promoting sustainable development for the area. The target zone is home to nearly 500,000 residents, hundreds of industrial units—most of which lack adequate sanitation systems—as well as a wide range of local stakeholders, including community leaders and municipal council members. The data collection relied on both qualitative and quantitative approaches, using a combination of open-ended and closed-ended questions, the latter requiring respondents to answer with a simple “yes” or “no.” Keywords: Surveys; Pollution; Sediments; Hann Bay; Senegal 1. Introduction In Senegal, the issue of pollution in Hann Bay has been at the center of concern, mobilizing the State and various stakeholders for decades. Within the framework of this study on community perception, the aim is to involve the concerned parties in the decision-making process in order to take into account their perceptions, opinions, expectations, and recommendations. The target area of Hann Bay, located south of the Cape Verde Peninsula and east of the city of GSC Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2025, 33(01), 310-325 311 Dakar, extends over approximately 17 km. It is bounded to the north by the Old Rufisque>Road, to the south by Hann Bay, to the west by the military base, and to the east by the village of Petit Mbao. Once a highly frequented site, Hann Bay today receives substantial volumes of wastewater and contains heavily polluted sediments. Indeed, rapid urbanization has brought industrial areas closer to residential zones, thereby intensifying environmental and health pressures. This study therefore seeks to address two main research questions: • What are the concerns of the stakeholders involved in the bay? • What can be our contribution to the rehabilitation of the bay in support of sustainable development? 2. Material and methods 2.1. Study Area The Hann-Mbao study area (figure 1) is composed of several municipalities, industrial facilities, households, and various human activities that generate pollution through both direct and clandestine discharges into the bay or into pits. The main district municipalities (Hann-Bel Air, DalifortFoirail, Thiaroye-sur-Mer, Sicap Mbao, and Mbao) most affected by the degradation of the bay have expanded significantly. However, due to the lack of sanitation infrastructure and adequate systems for waste collection and disposal, local residents often dump their solid waste on the beach or directly into the bay. This situation has severe ecological, sanitary, and visual consequences, which in turn negatively impact the sustainable management of Hann Bay. The target population includes residents from the various neighborhoods, leaders of community associations, businesses, and members of the municipal council. These local stakeholders are expected to provide the necessary data through both qualitative and quantitative surveys. Finally, in carrying out the quantitative survey, the questions formulated were both open-ended and closed-ended, the latter requiring respondents to answer with a simple “yes” or “no.” Source: Author, July 2022 Figure 1 Study Area 2.2. Survey Sites The survey sites were located in the municipalities stretching from Hann to Mbao. All neighborhoods were included in the survey. In total, 160 questionnaires were administered to the local populations. GSC Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2025, 33(01), 310-325 312 The neighborhoods visited in Hann were: Hann Yen, Hann Pêcheur, Hann Ferraille, Hann Montagne 5, Hann Montagne 6, Hann Marigot, and Hann Plage. The neighborhoods visited in Dalifort were: Eaux et Forêt, Forces Armées, Cité Marine, Darou Salam, Cité Mairie, Cité Deggo, Touba Seras, Cité Mor Maty Sarr, and Cité Castors Municipaux. The neighborhoods visited in Thiaroye were: Thiaroye-Gare, Thiaroye-sur-Mer, and Thiaroye-Kao. The neighborhoods visited in Mbao were: Petit Mbao (Lébou and Peul), Grand Mbao, Keur Mbaye Fall, and Cité Ndeye Marie. 2.3. Sampling Method The method used in this study was simple random sampling, which is part of the probabilistic survey methods. A sample is defined as a relatively small group, scientifically selected in such a way as to represent the parent population as faithfully as possible. Instead of examining the entire population, only a portion of it is studied, provided that it is representative, and conclusions are then drawn for the whole population. As shown in Table 1, a quota of approximately forty questionnaires was administered to residents in each of the following municipalities: Hann-Bel Air, Dalifort, Thiaroye-sur-Mer, Sicap Mbao, and Mbao. 2.4. Sampling of Respondents Given the demographic weight of each municipality, sampling was conducted, and it was deemed necessary to gather the perspectives of men and women, youth, adults, and the elderly. Interviews with residents of the study area were carried out on samples designed as reduced models of the overall population. The selection of these samples aimed to achieve the highest possible representativeness. A reliable scientific study is only as strong as the quality of the tools or instruments used for data collection. For this purpose, a questionnaire was administered by sector. Table 1 Number of Questionnaires Administered per Sector Sector Population Order Dénomination Number of Interviews Sector 1 Hann Bel Air 40 Sector 2 Dalifort 40 Sector 3 Thiaroye 40 Sector 4 Mbao 40 TOTAL 160 Source: Serigne Abdoul Aziz NDAW, July 2022 In addition, semi-structured interviews were conducted using a questionnaire administered to local officials, industrial stakeholders, and administrative services. The questions were formulated in relation to socio-economic activities and environmental policies. 3. Results and discussion The analysis and interpretation of the survey results are based both on documentary and bibliographic data, and on field observations collected during interviews conducted within the study area. Overall, the findings highlight several key issues concerning Hann Bay, including the most significant environmental problems, the settlement history of the local populations, and the impacts of pollution on economic, tourism, industrial, and commercial sectors. GSC Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2025, 33(01), 310-325 313 3.1. Distribution of Respondents by Nationality The analysis of nationality reveals that 100% of respondents surveyed in Hann Bel-Air, Dalifort, Thiaroye, and Mbao are of Senegalese nationality. 3.2. Distribution of Respondents by Age (%) Most individuals surveyed during this study were above 30 years of age, reflecting a relatively mature population. This age profile indicates that respondents are generally aware of the pollution in Hann Bay and its impacts on their livelihoods. In Hann Bel-Air, 46% of respondents were aged between 45 and 60 years, 35% were between 30 and 45 years, and 19% were over 60 years old. In Dalifort and Thiaroye, 44% of respondents were between 30 and 45 years, while the 18–25 age group and respondents over 50 years each represented 28% of the sample. In Mbao, 41% of respondents fell within the 30–45 age group. The 18–25 age group accounted for 32%, while those aged 50 and above represented 27% of the sample. In summary, individuals aged30 to 45 represent the most significant portion of the sample across the area extending from Hann to Mbao (see Graph). Having grown up with the pollution of the bay, their views, concerns, suggestions, and recommendations were given consideration. Source: Serigne Abdoul Aziz NDAW, July 2022 Figure 2 Distribution of Respondents by age (%) 3.3. Distribution of respondents according to the duration of residence (%) Most respondents are well acquainted with Hann Bay, as they have been residing in the area for several decades, on average around thirty years. • In Hann Bel-Air: 73% of respondents have lived in the area for a period ranging from 25 to 65 years (see Figure 13). This demonstrates that they possess in-depth knowledge of both the evolution of pollution in the bay and the various measures implemented for its management. GSC Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2025, 33(01), 310-325 314 Source: Serigne Abdoul Aziz NDAW, July 2022 Figure 3 Distribution of respondents according to the duration of residence (%) in Hann In Dalifort and Thiaroye, 28% of respondents are natives (see Figure 2). For non-native residents, the number of years of residence ranges from 2 to 35 years. The most recent arrivals are those who settled in the area around 2 years ago. Source : Serigne Abdoul Aziz NDAW, July 2022 Figure 4 Distribution of respondents by duration of residence (%) in Dalifort and Thiaroye In Mbao, 38% of the respondents are natives of the locality (see Figure). For those who are not originally from the different neighborhoods, the length of residence ranges between 2 and 30 years. The respondents who have most recently settled in the neighborhoods of Mbao have been living there for only 2 years. Figure 4 illustrates the interactions carried out during the surveys with residents living near SOGAS. These interactions made it possible to consider their opinions, concerns, and suggestions. GSC Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2025, 33(01), 310-325 315 Source: Serigne Abdoul Aziz NDAW, July 2022 Figure 5 Distribution of respondents according to length of residence in Mbao (%) Source: Serigne Abdoul Aziz NDAW, July 2020 Figure 6 Field surveys with residents living near SOGAS 3.4. Major problems related to Hann Bay • In Hann Bel-Air, Dalifort, Thiaroyeand Mbao According to the respondents, the main problem is industrial pollution, notably through uncontrolled canals, leading to both water pollution and air pollution, the latter being characterized by the generation of strong foul odors. In addition, for these populations, the Government is considered the primary polluter, particularly through ONAS, which does not sufficiently monitor the discharges channeled through Canal 6, originally designed for rainfall water drainage. Respondents also identified the Port as a major polluter, due to oil spills, wastewater discharged from ships, and household wastewater that is also released into the sea. Overall, the analysis of respondents’ perceptions of the most significant problem associated with Hann Bay shows that 84% believe the main issue is air pollution (odors) and water pollution, while 16% identify soil pollution as the most critical problem (see Figure). The following figure illustrates the distribution of respondents according to their perception of the most important problem linked to Hann Bay. GSC Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2025, 33(01), 310-325 316 This situation explains the current state of Hann Bay, which today represents an ecological time bomb for the surrounding populations. Source: Serigne Abdoul Aziz NDAW, July 2020 Figure 7 Field surveys with residents living near SAR Figure 7 illustrates the interactions carried out during the field surveys with residents living near SAR. These interactions made it possible to take into account their opinions, concerns, and suggestions. In summary, according to the respondents, the most important problem affecting Hann Bay is water pollution. This pollution is visible along the entire bay, has adverse effect on public health, and generates nuisance odors. Source: Serigne Abdoul Aziz NDAW, July 2022 Figure 8 Percentage distribution of the major problem related to Hann Bay (%) 3.5. Analysis of economic activities 3.5.1. Tourism Activities According to Respondents Tourism activities are virtually non-existent throughout the study area. The severe pollution of Hann Bay has a negative impact on tourism and significantly hinders local initiatives in this sector. • In Hann Bel-Air Tourism no longer generates any benefits for the local population, due to the increased pollution of the bay and the insecurity prevailing in certain areas, particularly south of the Hann fishing wharf. This is also where the Dakar Sailing GSC Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2025, 33(01), 310-325 317 Club (Club des Voiliers de Dakar, CVD) is located. In the past, according to local fishermen, the club used to welcome internationally renowned visitors, including celebrities such as Bonis Pears. • In Dalifort For the residents of Dalifort, tourism has been absent for several years. Survey results show that 85% of the population considers tourism activities no longer significant, while only 15% believe they still hold some importance (see Figure). • In Mbao According to residents, tourism has been at a standstill for years. They report that tourism activities no longer provide any benefits to the community. Source: Serigne Abdoul Aziz NDAW, July 2022 Figure 9 Distribution of Tourism Activities (%) 3.5.2. Commercial Activities According to Respondents Overall, respondents in the study area reported that commerce is the main economic activity, but it remains closely linked to the availability of fishery resources. • In Hann Bel-Air The Hann Fishing Wharf serves as a hub for the embarkation of artisanal canoes arriving from various locations. Economic activities largely depend on the daily catches of fishermen and the availability of marine resources. Smallscale trade is thriving, particularly in food services, including restaurants and street vendors selling juices, peanuts, mangoes, grilled fish, and similar products. All respondents (100% of the sample) identified commerce as the primary activity. • In Dalifort Analysis of survey data indicates that all respondents (100% of the sample) identified commerce as the main activity, particularly in connection with the rapid growth of the population. • In Mbao Survey results show that most respondents (62% of the sample) consider commerce to be the main activity, linked to the rapid population growth. Conversely, 38% perceive it as less important. Source: Serigne Abdoul Aziz NDAW, July 2022 Figure 10 Distribution of Commercial Activities (%) GSC Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2025, 33(01), 310-325 318 3.5.3. Agricultural Activities According to Respondents Overall, the analysis of the contribution of agricultural activities in this area shows that they have come to a standstill. This situation is mainly explained by pollution and increasing urbanization. • In Hann Bel-Air Agriculture is almost non-existent in this area, which was formerly a fishing and farming village. Today, agricultural land has been overtaken by urban expansion. The only remaining practices are found in Hann Maristes, where market gardening and horticulture continue to exist. These activities contribute to the local economy by generating income for households performing horticulture and market gardening. • In Dalifort Survey data indicate that 87% of the population consider agricultural activity unimportant. Conversely, 13% recognize its positive contribution, mainly through market gardening and horticulture. • In Mbao The analysis shows that agricultural activities in this area have been at a standstill for many years. Residents report that agriculture no longer provides any benefits, as all available land is polluted. 3.5.4. Industrial Activities According to Respondents According to respondents, industrial activities contribute to environmental pollution despite their economic importance. Moreover, industrial activity in the area is not perceived positively in Hann, Dalifort, or Mbao. • In Hann / Dalifort / Mbao Due to its proximity to the Dakar Autonomous Port, the municipality of Hann Bel-Air hosts around one hundred industries. These industries employ local workers, particularly those who did not pursue fishing as an occupation. However, their contribution is not widely perceived in a favorable light. The analysis of industrial activities indicates that most respondents (54% of the sample) consider industrial activity to be important. Conversely, 46% believe it is not (see Figure 8). Source: Serigne Abdoul Aziz NDAW, July 2022 Figure 11 Perception of the Importance of Industrial Activities Among the Population of Hann, Dalifort, and Mbao (%) Figure 11 illustrates discussions sessions conducted during field surveys with workers at Mèches Linda (industry). These interactions made it possible to get their opinions, concerns, and suggestions. It was noted that not all industries have implemented pre-treatment systems for wastewater. Many rely on the Government to provide both financial and technical support to ensure better management of their discharges. GSC Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2025, 33(01), 310-325 325 [3] Dieng, Alassane (March 2022), Coordinator of the Hann Bay Depollution Project, National Sanitation Office of Senegal (ONAS), indirect citation, www.onas.sn, 1 p. “The depollution works of Hann Bay were launched on December 25, 2020.” [4] Steering Committee Report, 2014 Hann Bay.