Ipsos has just published its "Predictions for 2026" report, which offers an in-depth analysis of Senegalese expectations and outlook for the coming year.
Covering a wide range of topics, including societal changes, economic outlook, technology, the 2026 Dakar Youth Olympic Games, and attitudes toward work and the environment, this report highlights how the people of Senegal envision the year 2026.
Despite the challenges faced in 2025, a sense of optimism prevails in Senegal, tempered by realistic concerns about the obstacles ahead.
Among the main lessons learned:
- A widely shared personal optimism, with the vast majority believing that 2026 will be a better year on an individual level.
(94%: I am optimistic that 2026 will be a better year for me than 2025 was.)
- The economic paradox: Confidence in the country's economic outlook is high (75% of respondents believe the economy will be stronger in 2026 than in 2025), but so are concerns about personal finances (35% believe their personal financial situation will improve in 2026, compared to 82% in 2025).
- 84% of respondents believe that the Youth Olympic Games will boost Senegal's economy, and 91% believe that the 2026 YOG will showcase Senegal's culture, hospitality, and dynamism.
- The impact of AI on the job market is a dilemma because it is perceived both as an opportunity (for 60%) and as a risk (for 71%) in terms of job creation and destruction.
- A certain weariness with social media is beginning to emerge: 39% of respondents say they will use social media less in 2025, which is 5 points more than in 2025 vs. 2024.
Methodology:
Representative sample of the population of Dakar according to gender, age (18 years and older), and socioeconomic status.
Face-to-face survey conducted at respondents' homes (CAPI) in December 2025 (562 respondents)
Study conducted in Dakar only, in the five departments: Dakar, Pikine, Rufisque, Guédiawaye, and Keur Massar.