Diomaye Faye champions Senegal’s sporting achievements at Nairobi summit

During the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, Bassirou Diomaye Faye delivered a standout speech celebrating Senegal’s recent sporting triumphs, including the African championship victory, which earned a standing ovation. His address underscored the pivotal role of sports in driving economic growth and infrastructure development, with a special emphasis on the upcoming Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games.

Faye participated in the high-level panel on Sport and Development at the University of Nairobi, part of the Africa-France Business Forum. He shared the stage with Presidents William Ruto, Emmanuel Macron, and Duma Boko, alongside Patrice Motsepe, President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), and global sports figures.

Standing ovation for Senegal’s sporting pride

The Senegalese President opened his speech with a powerful declaration that resonated across the room: “Senegal is Africa’s champion.” This bold statement, referencing the Lions’ continental title, highlighted the nation’s remarkable progress in sports over recent years and sparked enthusiastic applause from the audience.

Sport as a catalyst for national development

In his address, Faye positioned sports as a key pillar of Senegal’s national transformation agenda. He framed the sector as a powerful engine for economic growth, job creation, and social cohesion, calling for increased investment to sustain these gains.

Investing in a brighter sporting future

The President advocated for stronger financial commitments to support the development of sports infrastructure and the broader economy of sport. He emphasized that such investments are essential for long-term progress and national pride.

Dakar 2026: Africa’s Olympic debut in motion

With just five months remaining until the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games—set to be the first Olympic event hosted in Africa—Faye highlighted the tangible progress already underway. Over 132,000 people across Senegal have been mobilized for construction and renovation projects, reflecting the scale of this historic initiative.

The President also highlighted the rollout of community multi-purpose sports facilities in various municipalities. These spaces are designed to provide youth with access to sports, training, and social cohesion activities, fostering both athletic and personal development.

Mark your calendars: Dakar 2026 beckons

Concluding his speech, Faye extended a warm invitation to Dakar for the 2026 Youth Olympic Games, under the official slogan: “Africa welcomes, Dakar celebrates.” The event is poised to showcase the continent’s potential on the global stage while uniting communities through sport.