This fifth floor walkup with many useful amenities (landline, wifi, voltage converter, hairdryer, etc.) used to be the homebase for Brendan (an American Fulbright Scholar) when he was doing research in Dakar. It's in the middle of one of Dakar's most vibrant neighborhoods, Médina, which is crowded, but also very safe. The master bedroom has it's own bathroom. I occupy the other room with my wife and our baby. I former Brendan's assistant while he was a Fulbright Scholar.
The space is several flights up, but it removes you from the hustle and bustle of the streets (not that you won't be hearing sabar drumming, religious singing, calls to prayer, etc.). It has a great terrace, great views, a private bathroom (water pressure is acceptable, but cup showers can be the way to go sometimes), a desk, fast wifi (~15mbps), and many of little things that come in handy for travelers.
Let me know when you're arriving. If I am free, I can meet you at the airport for a small fee and take you back to the apartment. The building is called Residence FaDaour and it is on Rue 6 across 25 which is one of the main thoroughfares in Medina.
I am at the apartment and will be happy to advise you on whatever you need. I am on the host so you can communicate with me through whenever suitable for you before your arrival.
Be friendly and generous with the people around you and they will return the favor many times over. When you recognize people stop, shake their hand and say hi. Diouf, the guardian of the building, has always taken great care of me.