Final preparations underway as Dakar gears up for a historic event

The countdown has begun for the Youth Olympic Games Dakar 2026, with Senegal’s authorities working tirelessly alongside international partners to ensure flawless execution. On Wednesday, Senegal’s Minister of Interior and Public Security, Mouhamadou Makhtar Cissé, held a strategic call with his French counterpart, Laurent Nuñez, to review security arrangements for the games, scheduled from October 31 to November 13, 2026.

This groundbreaking event will bring together thousands of young athletes, officials, and journalists from across the globe. Ensuring their safety remains a top priority for Senegalese leadership, who are leaving no stone unturned in their preparations.

France reaffirms its commitment to Dakar’s success

According to Senegal’s Interior Ministry, the discussions centered on France’s ongoing support in securing the games and strengthening bilateral cooperation between Dakar and Paris. This engagement follows Minister Cissé’s official visit to Paris in June 2026, shortly after taking office. While specifics of the security partnership remain undisclosed, France brings extensive expertise in managing large-scale international sporting events, honed during the Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympics.

Solidarity in times of crisis

During the call, the Senegalese minister also conveyed his solidarity with France, which has been battling severe wildfires in its southern regions for weeks. The gesture underscores the deep-rooted ties between the two nations, extending beyond the immediate concerns of the YOG.

A landmark moment for Africa

Senegalese officials view this security collaboration as pivotal to the games’ success. As the first Olympic event in Africa’s history, the Dakar 2026 YOG represent more than just a sporting spectacle—they symbolize the continent’s growing capacity to host world-class events with the highest standards of safety and organization. With the deadline approaching, Dakar is accelerating coordination with its partners to ensure these games leave a lasting legacy, both athletically and logistically.