At the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of the Sénégal delivered a standout speech that captivated global leaders, including Patrice Motsepe, Emmanuel Macron, and William Ruto. His opening remark, « Le Sénégal est champion d’Afrique », celebrating the nation’s continental sports triumph, earned a thunderous standing ovation.
Faye framed sport not merely as competition but as a catalyst for economic growth, job creation, and social cohesion. His address highlighted the transformative power of athletics in driving national development, with a sharp focus on the upcoming Jeux Olympiques de la Jeunesse (YOG) Dakar 2026—a landmark event set to make history as the first Olympics ever held on African soil.
a bold vision for sports and infrastructure
The Sénégalais President underscored the urgency of sustained investment in sports infrastructure, calling for policies that would unlock long-term benefits for the economy and youth engagement. During his intervention at the high-level panel on Sport and Development, he emphasized how strategic funding could turn stadiums and training facilities into engines of prosperity.
Dakar 2026: already making an impact
With just months remaining until the opening ceremony, Faye spotlighted tangible progress on the ground. Over 132,000 workers across the country are currently engaged in building and refurbishing venues, signaling the scale of national mobilization. He also highlighted the rollout of multipurpose sports courts in local communities, designed to give young people access to training, recreation, and social integration opportunities.
global leaders respond to Senegal’s sporting ambition
The panel, hosted at the University of Nairobi as part of the Africa-France Business Forum, brought together heads of state, sports icons, and development partners. Among the distinguished attendees were Patrice Motsepe, President of the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF), and French President Emmanuel Macron, both of whom acknowledged the strategic importance of sport in Africa’s future.
In closing, Faye issued a rallying call: « L’Afrique accueille, Dakar célèbre »—a powerful reminder of the continent’s role as host and the Sénégal’s commitment to delivering an unforgettable celebration of youth, unity, and excellence.
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