As the first-ever Olympic event to be hosted on African soil, the Dakar 2026 Youth Games will welcome thousands of young athletes, officials, and media representatives from across the globe. Safeguarding this prestigious gathering is a top priority for Senegalese authorities, who are leaving no stone unturned in their preparation efforts.

This week, Senegal’s Minister of the Interior and Public Security, Mouhamadou Makhtar Cissé, held a strategic teleconference with his French counterpart, Laurent Nuñez, to discuss the intricate security frameworks that will be implemented during the competition, scheduled from October 31 to November 13, 2026.

France’s unwavering support for Dakar

The discussions centered on France’s pivotal role in bolstering the security infrastructure for the Games, building on the momentum of an official visit by Minister Cissé to Paris in June 2026. While specific details of the cooperation remain undisclosed, France brings invaluable expertise to the table, honed through its successful management of major international sporting events, including the Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympics.

Solidarity amid shared challenges

The dialogue also took a moment to address the devastating wildfires ravaging southern France. Minister Cissé extended his heartfelt solidarity to the French people, underscoring the depth of the bilateral relationship that extends beyond the scope of the Games.

A historic milestone for Africa

For Senegal, Dakar 2026 represents more than just a sporting event—it is a landmark opportunity to showcase the nation’s capacity to host a world-class gathering with uncompromising safety standards. Authorities are working tirelessly to ensure that the Games not only deliver sporting excellence but also leave a lasting legacy in terms of security coordination and organizational prowess.