Résumé
Oyster exploitation includes harvesting, rearing, processing and marketing. The aim of this study was to assess the evolution and economic and social importance of oyster production in Senegal. Field surveys were carried out using a questionnaire and an interview guide to gather all the information required for this study from 189 oyster operators in the Saloum Delta (Niodior, Dionewar, Falia, Diogane, Soucouta, Dassilamé Sérére, Sourou, Némaba, Bakadadji), in Casamance (Ziguinchor, Tobor, Niaguiss and Katakalousse), on the Petite Côte (Joal and Fadiouth), and in Dakar (Almadies, Marché Thiaroye, Marche Tiléne and Marché Castor). Our results show that oyster exploitation is a dynamic sector, mobilizing thousands of operators (more than 14,000 in total) and involving significant bartering. It provides operators with additional income, as well as important food and financial support. The oyster industry has enabled the emergence or development of other economic activities, such as pirogue rental, transport by pirogue and cart, the sale of perch to oyster farmers, the sale of petrol, and the financing of agricultural, beekeeping and commercial projects. However, its impact is rarely measured over time, despite its socio-economic importance. However, its impact is rarely measured over time, despite its socio-economic importance. The availability of recent data from this study has therefore enabled us to take stock of its current evolution, and to formulate recommendations and prospects for growth.