Senegal is divided into 45 départements, which constitute the second and final level of administrative subdivision below the regional level. Départements serve as intermediate governance units between regions and local communes, functioning primarily to coordinate state services and implement national policies at a more localized level. Each département is headed by a prefect appointed by the central government, who oversees administrative matters including civil registration, maintenance of public order, and coordination of deconcentrated state services such as education, health, and agriculture. While départements themselves have limited autonomous powers, they play a crucial role in bridging national administration with local government structures. The prefect also supervises the legality of decisions made by local councils within the département's territory, ensuring compliance with national legislation and administrative procedures.