As the countdown to the Youth Olympic Games (JOJ) Dakar 2026 continues, with only three months until its inauguration, Senegal is actively advancing its preparations alongside its international partners.

Mouhamadou Makhtar Cissé, Senegal’s Minister of Interior and Public Security, recently held a telephone conversation with his French counterpart, Laurent Nuñez. Their discussion focused on the security measures slated for deployment during the competition, which is scheduled to run from October 31 to November 13, 2026.

The JOJ Dakar 2026 holds immense significance as the first Olympic event ever to be hosted on the African continent. It is set to welcome thousands of young athletes, officials, and journalists from across the globe. Ensuring the safety and security of all participants and attendees stands as a paramount challenge for the Senegalese authorities.

Paris affirms its backing for Dakar

The two high-ranking officials primarily deliberated on France’s crucial support for securing the Games, in addition to exploring various other avenues of cooperation between Dakar and Paris. This recent exchange builds upon earlier discussions initiated during Minister Mouhamadou Makhtar Cissé’s official visit to Paris in June 2026, shortly after assuming his current role. While specific details of this enhanced cooperation remain undisclosed, France brings extensive experience in safeguarding major international sporting events, notably drawing insights from the successful hosting of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

A gesture of solidarity following French wildfires

At the outset of their call, the Senegalese minister also conveyed his profound solidarity with France, which has been grappling with significant forest fires across its southern regions for several weeks. This gesture underscores the robust and positive relationship between the two nations, extending beyond the immediate concerns surrounding the JOJ.

A historic milestone for Africa

Senegalese authorities view this collaborative effort as a critical factor for the overall success of the Games. The JOJ Dakar 2026 represents an unprecedented moment, as no Olympic competition has ever before taken place on African soil. Beyond the sporting spectacle, this event serves as a vital international platform for Senegal, aiming to showcase its capability to host a global gathering under optimal security conditions.

With the event drawing nearer, Dakar is intensifying its coordination with partners to ensure these Games leave a lasting legacy, both in terms of athletic achievement and organizational excellence.