Senegal shines as champion: Diomaye Faye’s impactful address at Africa Forward Summit

At the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, Bassirou Diomaye Faye delivered a historic speech celebrating Senegal’s continental football victory, earning a standing ovation. His address highlighted how sport drives economic growth and infrastructure development, with a spotlight on the upcoming Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games.

President Bassirou Diomaye Faye participated in a high-level panel on sport and development, part of the Africa-France Business Forum at the University of Nairobi. He shared the stage with leaders including William Ruto, Emmanuel Macron, and Duma Boko, alongside Patrice Motsepe, President of the Confederation of African Football, and other global sports figures.

A defining opening statement

According to Senegalese presidential sources, the President began his speech with a declaration that electrified the audience: “Senegal is Africa’s champion.” This bold statement referenced the Lions of Teranga’s recent continental football triumph, symbolizing the nation’s sporting progress over recent years.

Sport as a cornerstone for national transformation

During his intervention, the Senegalese head of state emphasized sport’s vital role in the country’s development agenda. He framed it as a strategic driver for economic growth, job creation, and social cohesion.

The case for greater investment in sports

Faye called for increased investment to sustainably develop sports infrastructure and boost the sector’s economic impact. He positioned sport not just as entertainment, but as a catalyst for broader national development.

Dakar 2026 Youth Olympics: early progress on the ground

With just five months until the first Olympic event ever hosted in Africa—Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games—the President highlighted tangible progress. Construction and renovation initiatives have already engaged over 132,000 workers across the country.

He also announced the rollout of multi-purpose sports facilities in local communities, designed to give young people access to training, play, and social integration through sport.

A call to Dakar in October 2026

In closing, President Faye invited the world to Dakar for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, under the official slogan: “Africa welcomes, Dakar celebrates.”