Faye calls for lasting legacy from Dakar 2026 Youth Olympics
Senegal's president urged investment in sport as a tool for economic and social development.
President Bassirou Diomaye Faye advocated on Saturday, October 31, 2026, for lasting investment in sport to drive economic and social development in Africa. Speaking at the Summit on Sport and Sustainable Development in Dakar, ahead of the Youth Olympic Games (Joj) opening ceremony, Faye stressed the need to leverage the international competition's legacy. He stated that the Dakar Joj should foster a strong sporting youth and a sports economy for development.
Faye, addressing heads of state and international delegates, including the IOC president, highlighted the Joj as an opportunity to convert Africa's sporting potential into economic and social gains. He emphasized a sports policy encompassing school and university sport, amateur practice, high-level competition, training, coaching, and infrastructure financing. The president noted that these conditions would encourage talent, attract investment, and create a sports economy.
The Senegalese leader pointed to investments made for Dakar 2026, including new and renovated sports facilities, which he believes will provide spaces for youth and communities, strengthen social cohesion, and foster citizen engagement. Faye assured that the state would mobilize national resources to preserve this legacy and monitor summit conclusions. He also condemned racism in sport and called for peace and cooperation.
Why it mattersPresident Faye's call for a sports economy and lasting infrastructure investment directly impacts Senegal's youth and communities.