Memory
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Arteries of large Senegalese cities bear the name of French personalities, a legacy of colonization. In Ziguinchor, in Casamance, some will be renamed to honor local figures instead.
Memory also passes through toponymy. In Senegal, where France established itself in the 17th century before extending its hold over the entire territory during the 19th century, the traces of colonization are still visible. And especially in the names of streets in large cities. In Dakar, the capital, one finds for example the avenue Faidherbe, of the name of this soldier and colonial administrator who was governor of Senegal.
In Ziguinchor, in the south of the country, is rue du Général-de-Gaulle. In September 1940, the one who refused the armistice waged a battle there against Pierre Boisson, governor of French West Africa, whose capital was in Senegal. The event marked the beginning of the integration of French colonies in Africa into Free France.
But more than sixty years after the independence of Senegal, the name of General de Gaulle is above all associated with colonization. A memory that passes less and less well. This is why the municipal council of this city of Casamance decided to rename several streets. “The maintenance of certain names is an offense to our national dignity”, justify the elect.
Very symbolic names to replace them
In Ziguinchor, rue du Général-de-Gaulle will therefore become rue de la Paix. The rue Javelier, an officer of the colonial army, will become the avenue of the African Tirailleur, in homage to the soldiers of the continent who fought for France during the two world wars. Rue Thiaroye-44, named after a place near Dakar where the French army mass…