At the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye delivered a standout speech, celebrating Senegal’s continental championship triumph. His remarks resonated strongly with attendees, emphasizing how sport can drive economic growth and infrastructure development, with a particular focus on the upcoming Dakar 2026 Youth Olympics.
Faye joined global leaders including Kenyan President William Ruto, French President Emmanuel Macron, and African Football Confederation President Patrice Motsepe for a high-level panel on sports and development at the Africa-France Business Forum in Nairobi.
Senegal’s sporting achievements win global applause
Opening with a powerful statement, Faye declared, “Senegal is Africa’s champion.” The phrase, referring to the national football team’s recent victory, underscored the country’s sporting progress and served as a springboard for broader discussions on development.
Sport as a catalyst for national transformation
Throughout his address, Faye positioned sport not just as entertainment but as a strategic tool for economic expansion, job creation, and social cohesion. He called for increased investment to sustain infrastructure growth and strengthen the sports economy.
Dakar 2026: Africa’s Olympic milestone in motion
With Dakar set to host the 2026 Youth Olympics—the first Olympic event on African soil—Faye highlighted the tangible progress already underway. Over 132,000 workers are engaged in construction and renovation across the country, while new multi-purpose sports facilities are being built in communities nationwide. These projects aim to give young people access to training, recreation, and community-building opportunities.
A united continental vision for Dakar 2026
Closing with a forward-looking message, Faye invited the world to Dakar in 2026 under the theme “Africa Welcomes, Dakar Celebrates.” The event is poised to mark a historic moment for both Senegal and the continent.
