With our correspondent in Dakar, Théa Ollivier

In response to the Ukrainian crisis, which follows the Covid-19 crisis, the government has decided to send direct support of 80,000 CFA francs (120 euros) to each of more than 542,000 households in difficulty, 43 billion CFA francs (65.7 million euros) in total. "These amounts will help improve their income" and will be sent "electronically," explains Oumar Guèye, minister and government spokesperson. "This must be placed within the framework of national solidarity."

The minister also recalled that the government is working to prevent an increase in the prices of basic necessities or hydrocarbons. To do so, the state had already announced that it was waiving or reducing taxes on certain products.

"These are measures we can call social safety nets. Those who are fortunate enough to have salaries in Senegal are an insignificant number compared to the vast majority of the population, which is in rural areas, which are in somewhat difficult situations. We must also think of this much larger segment: ensure that the most destitute people do not suffer the full effects of this crisis."

The distribution of aid to the poorest households will officially be launched on May 10 next.