In response to a surge in drownings and health risks linked to water quality, the administrative authority of the Ziguinchor department is maintaining the ban on swimming along the banks of the Casamance River. Following a consultation meeting, Prefect Latyr Ndiaye announced a strengthening of safety and awareness measures.

During this meeting, technical services, defense and security forces, and youth representatives were invited to examine the situation. The prefect reiterated that the swimming ban, in effect since 2017, remains essential. "The coastline's configuration does not allow for swimming in the river. Furthermore, the water quality is highly polluted, which could negatively impact public health," he explained.

Despite the ban, people, especially young people, continue to frequent the riverbanks, particularly during the summer holidays. The consequences are dramatic: "We regularly receive reports of drownings. On the instructions of the highest authority, we must take the necessary measures to ensure the safety of people, especially children," insisted Prefect Ndiaye.

An action plan has been adopted to strengthen prevention and monitoring. Communication and awareness campaigns will be intensified to inform the public about the dangers associated with swimming. The Department of Youth will work closely with advisory councils to mobilize young people around this issue. Furthermore, a monitoring system will be reinforced under the coordination of the Central Police Commissioner and the ASPs (Auxiliary Security Police).

The town hall has pledged to install prohibition signs and to provide shelters for the security personnel.

The administrative authority also called for the involvement of local economic stakeholders: "Public safety is a shared responsibility. We must act together to protect our children and prevent further tragedies."

This collective commitment aims to ensure that school holidays take place in the best possible safety conditions and to remind everyone that the Casamance river, despite its appeal, remains a no-go zone for swimming.