At the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal delivered a powerful speech that resonated with global leaders, including Emmanuel Macron and Patrice Motsepe. His remarks celebrated Senegal’s continental football triumph, sparking an enthusiastic ovation from the audience.
The President framed sport as a transformative force for Senegal’s economic and infrastructural growth, with a strong emphasis on the upcoming Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games. His intervention came during a high-level panel on sport and development at the France-Africa Business Forum.
Senegal’s football success as a national triumph
The President opened his address with a bold statement: “Senegal is Africa’s champion.” This declaration celebrated the Lions of Teranga’s recent continental victory, positioning it as a symbol of the nation’s sporting and social progress.
Sport as a driver of economic and social progress
Diomaye Faye highlighted the role of sport in Senegal’s national development agenda. He advocated for increased investment to strengthen infrastructure, create jobs, and foster social cohesion. His vision placed sport at the heart of sustainable growth strategies.
Dakar 2026: a major milestone in the making
With just months to go before the Youth Olympic Games—the first Olympic event ever hosted in Africa—Faye underscored the tangible progress already underway. Over 132,000 workers have been mobilized nationwide for construction and renovation projects.
The President also announced the rollout of new multi-purpose sports facilities in local communities. These initiatives aim to provide young people with access to training, recreation, and social integration through sport.
A continental celebration in the making
In closing, Faye invited the world to Dakar in October 2026, with the official slogan: “Africa welcomes, Dakar celebrates.” The event is poised to showcase the continent’s potential on the global stage while inspiring a new generation of athletes and leaders.