As the opening ceremony of the Youth Olympic Games (JOJ) Dakar 2026 draws nearer, Senegal continues to finalize its arrangements in partnership with international allies.
Mouhamadou Makhtar Cissé, Senegal’s Minister of Interior and Public Security, held a telephone conversation on Wednesday with his French counterpart, Laurent Nuñez. Their discussion focused on the security measures to be implemented during the competition, scheduled to take place from October 31 to November 13, 2026.
This inaugural Olympic event on the African continent, specifically in West Africa, is set to welcome thousands of young athletes, officials, and journalists from across the globe. Ensuring their safety and security stands as a paramount challenge for the Senegalese authorities.
Paris confirms its support for Dakar
During their exchange, the two high-ranking officials primarily addressed France’s contribution to securing the Games, alongside other areas of cooperation between Dakar and Paris. This conversation builds upon earlier discussions initiated during Minister Mouhamadou Makhtar Cissé’s official visit to Paris in June 2026, shortly after assuming his ministerial role. While the specific details of this collaborative effort have not been publicly disclosed, France brings extensive expertise in managing security for major international sporting events, notably following the successful hosting of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
A message of solidarity after fires in France
At the outset of their dialogue, the Senegalese minister also conveyed his solidarity with France, which has been battling 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 of the JOJ.
A historic event for Africa
Senegalese officials view this enhanced cooperation as a crucial factor for the successful execution of the Games. JOJ Dakar 2026 marks an unprecedented milestone: never before has an Olympic competition been staged on the African continent. Beyond its sporting significance, this event serves as a global showcase for Senegal, aiming to demonstrate its capability to host a world-class gathering under optimal security conditions.
With the deadline fast approaching, Dakar is intensifying coordination with its partners to ensure these Games leave a lasting legacy, both in terms of athletic achievement and organizational excellence.
