The prefect of Mbour, Amadou Diop, has called for a collective effort from the population, authorities, and tourism stakeholders to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse in the run-up to the 2026 Youth Olympics in Dakar. The event will be hosted in part by the city of Saly, which, along with Somone, is considered a high-risk area for such exploitation due to its tourism industry. Diop made the appeal during the opening of a multisectoral workshop aimed at enhancing capacities and awareness on protecting children from sexual exploitation in the context of travel and tourism.
The workshop, held in Somone, aims to strengthen the abilities of various stakeholders to protect children from sexual exploitation, a critical issue given the upcoming influx of visitors for the Youth Olympics. Diop emphasized that the protection of children is a constitutional right and urged all actors to play their part in preventing this scourge. He noted that the involvement of defense and security forces, as well as the Ministry of Justice, is crucial in the fight against child sexual exploitation.
According to Prefect Diop, the selection of Saly and Somone as hosts for the workshop is strategic, given their status as key tourism and accommodation areas that are vulnerable to risks associated with child sexual exploitation. With the Youth Olympics expected to draw a large crowd to the host cities, Diop stressed the need for heightened vigilance and engagement from all stakeholders in protecting children.
Diop highlighted the importance of community engagement in combating child sexual exploitation, stating that it requires a collective dynamic involving all segments of society. He called for sustained awareness efforts and encouraged local populations to participate actively in initiatives aimed at protecting children. The prefect also announced plans for a charter to be signed on Saturday, which will formalize the commitment of authorities and the community to defend young people against sexual abuse and exploitation.
The charter, set to be signed by various stakeholders, is seen as a significant step in demonstrating the commitment to protecting children. Diop described it as a "very strong message" that underscores the resolve of authorities and the community to act against child sexual exploitation. He also invited the public to participate in a planned pedestrian randonnée in Saly, an initiative by the Ministries of Tourism and Justice.
Diop reiterated that the fight against child sexual exploitation must not be confined to specific groups or actors but rather be a universal effort. He emphasized the role that everyone must play in safeguarding children, noting that the issue transcends sectoral boundaries. The prefect's call to action comes as part of broader efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of children in the face of major international events like the Youth Olympics.
The 2026 Youth Olympics in Dakar will take place from August 19 to 31, 2026. As part of the preparatory activities, several events and initiatives are being organized to raise awareness and build capacity among stakeholders to tackle critical social issues, including child protection. Senegal, as the host country, is taking proactive steps to address these challenges, with a focus on creating a safe environment for all participants and visitors.
Key points
- The prefect of Mbour, Amadou Diop, calls for collective action against child sexual exploitation ahead of the 2026 Youth Olympics in Dakar.
- The workshop in Somone aims to enhance capacities and awareness on protecting children from sexual exploitation in the context of travel and tourism.
- A charter is set to be signed by stakeholders, formalizing their commitment to defend young people against sexual abuse and exploitation.
