Madar (Matam) - The announcement of water releases from the Manantali dam this week has revived fears among residents of the Senegal River banks in the Matam region of north-eastern Senegal, after damage caused by last year's floods, the Senegalese Press Agency (APS) reported on Sunday, October 18, 2026.
According to APS, the company operating the Manantali and Felou dams (SEMAF) said releases would begin once the reservoir reaches 208.05 metres, without giving volumes or dates.
Residents of Nawel, Nguidjilone and Diorbovol said homes flood whenever releases coincide with rising river levels and that the Woudourou-Ndouloumadji road becomes impassable, calling for a new bridge over the Diamel branch.
Matam prefect Modou Thiam handed 500 sandbags to Diamel residents to build a small dyke, while the commune of Ogo distributed another 500 in Belli Diaby. NGO equipment including motor pumps and protective gear is due to be handed to the communes and fire services.
Matam governor Said Dia urged elected officials and village chiefs to report any concerns quickly, while residents were advised to follow official announcements and fishermen to beware of currents.
The Senegal River runs along the border between Mauritania and Senegal, and its dams are managed jointly by the basin states.
