Senegal marks 80th anniversary of French colonial massacre, seeks answers

Senegal commemorated the 80th anniversary of the 1944 Thiaroye massacre on Sunday, honoring the African soldiers who fought for France during World War II and were killed for demanding fair treatment and payment.

The memorial ceremony in Thiaroye, a fishing village near Dakar, was attended by Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, French Foreign Affairs Minister Shirley Ayorkor Botchway, and other African leaders.
France has faced long-standing demands from Senegal for an official apology and a full investigation into the massacre.

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While French authorities acknowledge the killings, the reported death toll of 35 to 75 soldiers is contested by historians who estimate that nearly 400 were killed.

Senegalese President Faye expressed optimism about France’s recent engagement, citing President Emmanuel Macron’s acknowledgment of the massacre in a letter.

Former Senegalese Prime Minister Aminata Toure highlighted the importance of uncovering the truth, describing the event as a crucial step toward justice and reconciliation for Senegal’s younger generation.