New Insights on the Palaeo-archaeological Potential of the Niokolo-Koba National Park, Senegal

Recent archaeological surveys in Niokolo-Koba National Park, Senegal, have uncovered promising evidence of Pleistocene and early Holocene sedimentary deposits, highlighting the park's significant palaeo-archaeological potential. Among the 27 identified sites, some exhibit stratified assemblages that meet criteria for extensive future research, including geochronology, geomorphology, and palaeobotany. The study reveals a rich landscape with abundant sources of knappable material and well-preserved sedimentary sequences, suggesting Niokolo-Koba could be pivotal in understanding the evolutionary dynamics of West African populations during early occupation periods. This research provides a foundation for deeper exploration into the region's behavioral evolution and palaeoenvironmental context.

Ndiaye, M., Huysecom, E., & Douze, K. (2023). New Insights on the Palaeo-archaeological Potential of the Niokolo-Koba National Park, Senegal. African Archaeological Review, 40(2), 429–442. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10437-023-09525-w