Alumni Conference on the Mangrove

On May 21, 2008 the American Embassy, in collaboration with the Senegalese USG Alumni Association and the University of Ziguinchor, sponsored a lively conference on the protection of mangroves at the University of Ziguinchor, in southern Senegal. The keynote speaker, Mr. Elhadj Mbara Sene, former Director of the Forest Resources Division, Forestry Department, discussed the main issues surrounding mangrove protection in Senegal and urged the population to assist in preserving this important natural resource which also helps contribute to the Senegalese economy.  Ziguinchor’s mangroves have been disappearing and authorities are trying to raise public awareness.  Over 250 people attended the conference, including the university’s Rector, the Deputy Governor and a parliamentarian.