IN a historic move, the Senegalese government and the Movement of Democratic Forces of Casamance (MFDC) have signed a peace agreement, bringing an end to one of Africa’s longest-running conflicts. The peace deal, brokered by Guinea-Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, marks a turning point for the Casamance region, state media reports.
A step toward lasting peace
Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko described the agreement as a significant step toward lasting peace in Casamance. ‘This agreement represents a very big step toward definitive peace in Casamance,’ Sonko said during a joint press briefing at the Palace of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau. He expressed his gratitude to Guinea-Bissau for its role in facilitating the negotiations that led to the agreement.
Ending decades of violence
The conflict in Casamance began in 1982, as the MFDC sought independence for the region, which borders The Gambia. The fighting has claimed thousands of lives over the decades and severely impacted the region’s economic development. The new agreement is seen as a path toward stability and prosperity for the people of Casamance.
According to the report, negotiations were concluded over three days by a dedicated committee that worked to bring both parties together to end the decades-long conflict. ‘We had to close the work on the negotiations between the MFDC and the state of Senegal,’ Sonko said.
Disarmament and reconciliation
Progress toward reconciliation was seen in May 2023, when about 250 MFDC fighters surrendered their weapons in Mongone, a former separatist stronghold. This disarmament was viewed as a positive sign of the MFDC’s commitment to peace and a brighter future for the region.
With the peace agreement now in place, there are hopes for the economic revitalization of Casamance, which has long been held back by violence and insecurity. The deal sets the stage for investments in infrastructure, education, and healthcare to benefit local communities and promote lasting peace.
Economic opportunities for Casamance
The Senegalese government has indicated that economic development in Casamance will be a priority following the peace deal. Projects focusing on infrastructure improvements, agricultural development, and job creation are expected to be launched to ensure long-term stability and growth.
President Umaro Sissoco Embalo expressed optimism about the impact of the peace agreement, stating that it could serve as a model for resolving other conflicts in the region. He praised the commitment of both parties to dialogue and negotiation, emphasising that lasting peace is built on trust and cooperation.
A new chapter for Senegal
The peace agreement marks the beginning of a new chapter for Casamance, offering hope for a future defined by unity, stability, and economic progress. The people of Casamance, who have endured decades of hardship, may finally experience the peace they deserve.
This historic agreement stands as a testament to the power of diplomacy and dialogue in resolving even the most entrenched conflicts. It offers a blueprint for peace and reconciliation not only for Casamance but for other conflict-affected regions across Africa.
With this peace deal, Senegal and the MFDC have taken a crucial step toward building a brighter and more prosperous future for the Casamance region, demonstrating that peace is possible through dialogue and mutual understanding.
