The flame has arrived in Dakar! It reached the Place du Souvenir on Saturday and is now preparing to travel through Senegal's 14 regions, in 30 stages, until October 31st, the day the torch will light the cauldron of the Youth Olympic Games at the Abdoulaye Wade Stadium for the opening ceremony. The flame will remain in the Dakar region until September 27th, before heading to Thiès, Louga, Saint-Louis, Matam, Diourbel, Fatick, Kaolack, Kaffrine, Tambacounda, Kedougou, Kolda, Sedhiou, Ziguinchor, Saly, and Rufisque. A grand public celebration to spread the spirit of the Youth Olympic Games throughout the country.
Gather and celebrate
The relay will be an opportunity to showcase the country's historical, cultural, and natural heritage: Dakar and its waterfront promenade, the Casamance River, the peanut basin, Gorée Island… Cultural, educational, and sporting events will punctuate the route. According to the COJOJ, the tour “ will highlight the spirit of "teranga" in Senegal, this tradition of hospitality and generosity unique to the country, while promoting the Olympic values of excellence, friendship and respect The arrival ceremony in Dakar already set the tone with the March of the Linguères, a parade of about a hundred women which concluded with the lighting of a cauldron in the Place du Souvenir.
Tambacounda's turn will come on October 14th, and Mayor Papa Banda Dièye has made his intentions clear. Receiving the Olympic flame in Tambacounda is a tremendous honor and an exceptional opportunity. This event will put our town in the global spotlight. It is a huge victory for our youth, our athletes, and all the people of eastern Senegal. We are ready to offer a memorable and universal welcome to this symbol of peace and fraternity. "The elected official was thrilled when he signed the agreement.
« As an Olympian, I know what the Olympic flame can represent., confided IOC President Kirsty Coventry a few weeks agoIt sparks enthusiasm. It brings people together. And it reminds us that sport has the power to inspire us to dream bigger. “Even Kedougou, more than 700 kilometers from Dakar, will be able to feel the excitement of the flame and dream as it passes by. The general coordinator of Dakar 2026, Ibrahima Wade, wants to make these Youth Olympic Games…” a model of success, a symbol of unity and a source of national pride To achieve this, the torch relay tour is undoubtedly an invaluable asset.
