The Senegalese government has embarked on a mission to redefine its relationship with its former colonial ruler, France, by renaming public places that still bear the names of French colonial figures. This move is seen as a significant step towards erasing the painful historical memories of colonial rule and strengthening Senegalese identity.

Many streets and buildings in Senegal, particularly in the capital city of Dakar, were originally named by the French colonial government to honor officials and royals of the French Empire. However, these names serve as a reminder of the country's past struggles under colonial rule, slavery, and conquest. A 2019 study found that 60% of the area in Dakar's political and administrative center bears the names of colonial administrators, governors, commanders, as well as French writers and doctors.

The new president, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who assumed office in April, has pledged to strengthen Senegalese identity and reduce ties with France. He has also vowed to replace French as the country's official language. Faye's administration is seen as a departure from the previous government, which was viewed as overly aligned with France and prioritizing its interests above national concerns.

In a significant move, President Faye called for the withdrawal of French troops from Senegal, signaling a shift in the country's foreign policy and ending decades-long defense pacts in West Africa. The French military has maintained a presence in Senegal with around 350 soldiers since its independence in 1960, primarily for training and regional security operations.

In December, President Faye announced plans to establish a new government agency tasked with renaming streets and public squares to honor Senegalese figures. The agency, to be led by Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, will also rewrite Senegal's textbooks to reflect a national perspective. This move is seen as essential to eliminating the lingering impact of the past, from Senegal's role as a major slave port to its centuries of colonial rule.

Dakar-based urban planner Rakhiat Diallo Fall emphasized the importance of renaming streets, stating that "seeing streets named after people we don't know, people who have mistreated us, is a disgrace." Fall believes that these efforts are crucial to redefining Senegal's identity and moving forward as a nation.

The move to rename streets and buildings is seen as a significant step towards asserting Senegal's independence and sovereignty. As the country continues to navigate its complex relationship with France, this decision is likely to have far-reaching implications for the nation's identity, politics, and economy.

In conclusion, Senegal's decision to rename streets and buildings named after French colonial figures marks a significant shift in the country's approach to its colonial past. As the nation continues to assert its independence and sovereignty, this move is likely to have a profound impact on Senegal's identity, politics, and economy, and could potentially serve as a model for other African nations seeking to redefine their relationships with their former colonial rulers.