Senegal's Lake Retba Restored After Four-Year Flood Disruption
Senegal's Lake Retba - commonly known as the Pink Lake - has recovered its distinctive rosy colour following a four-year community-led restoration effort, with salt extraction officially resuming after a traditional ceremony earlier this month. Located 30 km northeast of Dakar, the lake lost its salinity in August 2022 when authorities diverted floodwaters into it as an emergency drainage measure, disrupting the high-saline conditions required for both salt formation and the pink hue produced by the Dunaliella salina algae. The influx of freshwater effectively halted operations for approximately 3,000 salt harvesters and an estimated 2,000 people employed indirectly through transport and trade.
The recovery was driven by local industry associations - representing salt producers, tour operators, artisans and businesses - who collectively raised around 23 million CFA francs (approximately US$40,000) to fund pumping operations, with roughly 100 volunteers helping install and operate some 600 metres of piping to drain excess water towards the sea. Local authorities later contributed additional equipment and electricity to support the effort. With salinity levels now restored, the lake is expected to resume attracting between 7,000 and 8,000 visitors during its October - to - May tourist season, and local hotels are preparing for the return of visitors - marking a significant economic recovery for the surrounding community.
Source: Reuters