Water, through Words and Evils: The Case of Saint-Louis

The Island of Saint-Louis faces a growing paradox where its rich colonial cultural heritage and unique deltaic environment pose both challenges and opportunities for sustainable development, particularly concerning water management. Research reveals that while water has traditionally been revered by cultures like the Serer people—linked to protective spirits and life rituals—industrialization and urbanization have shifted perceptions, reducing it to a commodity. This transition threatens the site's spiritual and ecological heritage, highlighting the need for balanced strategies that integrate cultural preservation with modern development. The study underscores the vulnerability of water heritage in such contexts while advocating for approaches that leverage local traditions and deltaic conditions to foster resilience.

Ndiaye, M. (2023). Water, through Words and Evils: The Case of Saint-Louis. Blue Papers, 2(2). https://doi.org/10.58981/bluepapers.2023.2.12