With just three days to go until the opening ceremony of the Youth Olympic Games (JOJ) Dakar 2026, scheduled for October 31, Senegal's President Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye has made a call for national mobilization to ensure the success of the international sporting event. During a cabinet meeting on October 28, he urged the government, state services, and the Organizing Committee to guarantee the smooth running of the sports and cultural activities.
The President expressed his wish for a warm welcome to be extended to the delegations and participants expected for the Games, which will take place over two weeks. He emphasized the importance of a successful organization of the JOJ, which puts Senegal and Africa at the heart of international sporting news. Several heads of state and government, as well as the President and members of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), are expected to attend the opening ceremony.
In his communication, President Faye stressed the need for a successful organization of the JOJ, highlighting the role of the event in promoting Senegal and Africa globally. He also called on the population to reserve a warm welcome to the country's guests during the two weeks of competition and cultural activities. This, he believes, will contribute to the success of the event.
On the sidelines of the JOJ, a Summit is scheduled to take place on October 31, 2026, under the theme "Sport for Development". This meeting aims to accompany the dynamic of the Games by highlighting the role of sport in development issues. President Faye also took the opportunity to encourage the Senegalese delegation, "Team Senegal", to which he handed the national flag on October 26.
The President reiterated his call for national unity and collective mobilization to make Dakar 2026 a success. He expressed his confidence in the ability of the Senegalese people to come together and host a memorable event. The government and state services have been tasked with ensuring the smooth running of the event.
As the event approaches, the city of Dakar is expected to be filled with athletes, officials, and spectators from around the world. The President's call for a warm welcome to the delegations is seen as a key aspect of the event's success. The JOJ Dakar 2026 is expected to promote Senegal and Africa, while also fostering a sense of unity and solidarity among the participating nations.
The event will feature a range of sports and cultural activities, showcasing the rich heritage of Senegal and Africa. With the President's call for national mobilization, it is expected that the event will be a memorable one, highlighting the best of Senegalese and African hospitality.
Key points
- President Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye calls for national mobilization to ensure the success of JOJ Dakar 2026.
- The President urges a warm welcome to be extended to visiting delegations and participants.
- The JOJ Dakar 2026 is set to take place from October 31 to November 14, 2026.
