In Kaolack, why Mayor Serigne Mboup is replacing taps with wells

Dozens of primary schools in Kaolack have been left without running water amid a financial dispute between the municipality and water company Sen’Eau. Sen’Eau is seeking 600 million CFA francs in unpaid bills, while the municipality says it is owed nearly 6 billion CFA francs in taxes and fees, including a disputed levy on underground pipes. The company served the municipal treasurer with a 26.24 million CFA franc cheque for charges it considers legally due for 2023–2026, while formally contesting the pipe levy. Mayor Serigne Mboup has arranged emergency well drilling in some schoolyards to supply pupils during the start of the school year and a period of intense heat; the municipality says it tests the water quality daily.