Paper short abstract:

This contribution will examine the stakes of development projects initiated by small groups of Belgians linked with their tourism experience in Senegal. What representations do they have of each Other and how does it shape their relationship and the implementation of the projects?

Paper long abstract:

While Senegal has economic health and living conditions superior to those of its neighbors, it is the most helped country in West Africa. Moreover it is one of the countries in this area to have developed a true mass tourism. In this context a lot of tourists fall in love with Senegal and its population in search of roots, authenticity and human warmth and they decide then to start a development project with a native with whom they have sympathized during their tourist stay.

Based on a recent field research, this contribution will examine the stakes of development projects carried by Belgian citizens in the field of education and health in the very touristic area of M'bour in Senegal. I will focus on two main issues that I am studying during my PhD research. This contribution will firstly analyse the motivations that underlie these projects and the perceptions they have of each Other. In a second time it will examine how these representations shape the relationship between them and the way that these projects are implemented.