Senegal Commemorates 80th Anniversary of Thiaroye Massacre
Yesterday, Senegal marked a somber milestone: the 80th anniversary of the Thiaroye massacre, a dark chapter in the country’s history. The ceremony, led by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, brought together African leaders, government officials, and guests from around the world.
The day’s events began with President Faye laying flower garlands at the Thiaroye cemetery, accompanied by his counterparts. They then visited the memorial dedicated to Senegalese and Malagasy shooters, where Professor Mamadou Koné presented a poignant exhibition titled “Thiaroye 44: a wounded memory.”
The commemoration continued at the Camp Lieutenant Amadou Lindor Fall, where a military and civilian ceremony marked a significant turning point in the recognition of this painful episode. In his speech, President Faye paid tribute to the Senegalese shooters who lost their lives on December 1, 1944.
The President also announced several initiatives to honor the victims and ensure their memory lives on. These include the construction of a memorial in Thiaroye, a documentation and research center, and the naming of streets and squares after the tragic event. Furthermore, the history of Thiaroye will be integrated into Senegal’s education system, ensuring future generations remember this important chapter in the country’s history.
The Thiaroye massacre occurred on December 1, 1944, when French troops opened fire on African soldiers who were protesting poor conditions and unpaid wages. The exact number of deaths is still disputed, with estimates ranging from 35 to 300.
In recent years, France has begun to acknowledge its role in the massacre. In 2014, French President François Hollande described the event as a “bloody repression.” This year, President Emmanuel Macron referred to it as a “massacre” in a letter to President Faye .
