Senegal is a country located in West Africa. Its capital is Dakar and the official language is French. Senegal has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from African, Arab, and European traditions. The country is known for its vibrant music scene, particularly the genre of Mbalax. Senegal also has a diverse landscape, including sandy beaches, savannas, and mangrove swamps. The economy is largely dependent on agriculture, fishing, and mining. Senegal gained independence from France in 1960 and has since made strides in democratic governance and economic development.