As the opening of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games approaches in just three months, Senegal continues to advance its preparations in close collaboration with its international partners.

Mouhamadou Makhtar Cissé, the Senegalese Minister of Interior and Public Security, engaged in a telephone conversation on Wednesday with his French counterpart, Laurent Nuñez. Their discussion focused on the security measures planned for the competition, which is scheduled to take place from October 31 to November 13, 2026.

Being the first Olympic event ever hosted on the African continent, the JOJ Dakar 2026 will welcome thousands of young athletes, officials, and journalists from across the globe. Ensuring their safety and security stands as one of the primary challenges for the Senegalese authorities.

Paris confirms unwavering support for Dakar’s security

The two high-ranking officials primarily addressed France’s commitment to supporting the security efforts for the Games, alongside other areas of cooperation between Dakar and Paris. This exchange follows up on discussions initiated during Mouhamadou Makhtar Cissé’s official visit to Paris in June 2026, shortly after he assumed his current ministerial role. While the specific details of this security cooperation have not been publicly disclosed, France brings extensive experience in safeguarding major international sporting events, notably drawing from the successful hosting of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

A gesture of solidarity following French wildfires

At the outset of their conversation, the Senegalese minister also extended his profound solidarity to France, which has been grappling with significant forest fires in its southern regions for several weeks. This gesture underscores the robust quality of relations between the two nations, extending beyond the immediate concerns related to the Youth Olympic Games.

A truly historic milestone for Africa

Senegalese authorities view this enhanced cooperation as a pivotal factor for the successful execution of the Games. The JOJ Dakar 2026 represents an unprecedented historical achievement: an Olympic competition has never before been organized on the African continent. Beyond the realm of sports, this event serves as a crucial international platform for Senegal, aiming to showcase its capability to host a world-class gathering under optimal security conditions.

As the deadline draws nearer, Dakar is intensifying its coordination with its partners, striving to ensure that these Games leave a profound and lasting legacy, both in terms of sporting achievement and organizational excellence.