Hip-Hop, Civic Awareness, and Antiestablishment Politics in Senegal: The Rise of the Y en a Marre Movement

Youth-Led Social Movements and Peacebuilding in Africa

“…Banking on the existing economic hardship and the desire of the people for a message of hope and potential changes in the economy, Wade coined his campaign messages to achieve immediate political gains against the government. He promised an economic and political revival through political transparency, diversification of the economy, and a focus on new construction and infrastructure projects (Genova 2012;Ndiaye 2021). Central to his victory was the support provided by young hip-hop artists who aimed at promoting change from below (Sajnani 2017).…”

“…Sall began exhibiting authoritarian tendencies, not being open to criticism; at the same time, he began allowing for greater French participation in the Senegalese economy. One of Sall's more controversial decisions was allowing French supermarket chain Auchan to operate in the country (Ndiaye 2021). The chain is owned by French billionaire Gerard Mulliez and since its arrival in Senegal; it has opened 14 supermarkets in the capital alone (Genova 2012).…”

“…The action of Thiat and his constant criticism of the elites sparked a virtual debate in Senegal, and also among Senegalese in the diaspora, on Thiat's behaviour and how it relates to the Senegalese tradition of respecting one's elders and being open to political engagements with one's opponent, while at the same time asserting political agency nad demanding accountability of the governing elite. (Bhattarai 2016;Ndiaye 2021).…”

“…Senegalese artists especially are immensely influenced by artists such as the late Tupac Shakur, Notorious B.I.G., Eminem and Puff Daddy. However, Senegalese artists are careful to choose the elements from such music that would resonate with their own culture (Ndiaye 2021;Wilson Centre 2015). When one listens to music by Y'en a Marre's rappers, such as Thiat, Fou Malade, Keur Gui and others, the immensely local and personal aspect of the art is evident.…”

“…However, this perception of him was short-lived as his 11 years in power had been marked by a steady decline of Senegal's economy, allegations of corruption and nepotism, and a widening wealth gap with shrinking opportunities for the country's youth. At the age of 84, Wade was presiding over a country that was largely dependent on imports for most resources (Ndiaye 2021) and experiencing severe shortages -most acutely of electricity. The relentless power cuts that went on for days finally pushed rappers and political activist Thiat, a member of the Keur Gui Crew, and Mallal Talla (popularly known by the name Fou Malade) into action.…”