As the countdown to the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games begins, Senegal is accelerating its preparations alongside international partners.

Senegal’s Minister of the Interior and Public Security, Mouhamadou Makhtar Cissé, held a telephone conversation with his French counterpart, Laurent Nuñez, to address the security frameworks for the Games, scheduled from October 31 to November 13, 2026.

The inaugural Olympic event on African soil will welcome thousands of young athletes, officials, and journalists from around the world. Ensuring their safety remains a top priority for Senegalese authorities.

Paris reaffirms commitment to Dakar’s security

According to Senegal’s Ministry of the Interior, the ministers focused on France’s support in securing the Games and broader cooperation between Dakar and Paris. This dialogue builds on discussions held during Cissé’s official visit to Paris in June 2026, shortly after his appointment. While specifics of the collaboration remain undisclosed, France brings extensive experience in securing major international sporting events, notably following the Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympics.

A gesture of solidarity amid France’s wildfires

At the start of their meeting, the Senegalese minister conveyed solidarity with France, which has been battling severe forest fires in its southern regions for weeks. This exchange underscored the strong bilateral relations extending beyond the Games’ security concerns.

A historic milestone for Africa

Senegalese authorities view this cooperation as pivotal to the Games’ success. The Dakar 2026 Youth Olympics represent an unprecedented achievement, marking the first time an Olympic event will be hosted on African soil. Beyond sports, the event offers Senegal an opportunity to showcase its ability to organize a global gathering under the highest safety standards.

With the deadline approaching, Dakar is ramping up coordination with its partners to ensure the Games leave a lasting legacy, both athletically and organizationally.