Dakar’s surprising cost of living: more expensive than Paris for everyday essentials
A widely shared video highlights the surprisingly high prices in Dakar, where staple goods like chicken, costing 2,610 F CFA per kilo, exceed prices in Paris. This situation significantly challenges the purchasing power of Senegalese citizens.
Despite being a nation with limited resources, Senegal’s capital, Dakar, endures some of Africa’s highest living costs. This stark reality is underscored by a recent viral video that juxtaposes the prices of everyday commodities in Dakar with those in Paris. The comparison has resurfaced prominently as Senegalese households grapple with a fresh wave of price increases across various sectors.
The video, which originally appeared some time ago, has gained renewed traction on social media platforms in recent days. Its resurgence comes amidst a general surge in prices affecting consumers throughout Senegal, including a notable hike in fuel costs. The content starkly illustrates how many essential items are priced higher in Dakar than in the French capital, sparking widespread discussion.
Significant price disparities revealed
The comparative analysis featured in the video examines various daily necessities. For instance, a whole chicken is sold for 2,610 F CFA per kilo in Senegal, while the equivalent costs approximately 2,300 F CFA in France. A similar disparity is observed with “Elle & Vire” butter, priced at 2,990 F CFA in Dakar compared to roughly 1,990 F CFA in Paris. This trend extends to cooking oil, a fundamental ingredient in Senegalese cuisine, which costs 6,990 F CFA in Senegal versus about 6,000 F CFA in France.
The price gap becomes even more pronounced for non-essential goods. A box of Chocapic cereal, for example, retails for around 1,990 F CFA in France but commands 5,250 F CFA in Senegal — more than double the price. Similarly, a bottle of Soupline fabric softener is priced at 9,990 F CFA in Dakar, significantly higher than its approximate 5,600 F CFA cost in Paris. Such considerable differences have undeniably surprised many residents of Senegal.
Beyond consumer products, the high cost of living in Dakar also impacts housing and fuel, with the government recently implementing price adjustments. This situation is far from isolated; Senegal is recognized as one of the most expensive countries on the African continent, ranking just behind Côte d’Ivoire in terms of living expenses.