The Ministry of Youth and Sports has presented its 2026 budget, which amounts to 39.13 billion CFA francs in commitment authorizations and 38.96 billion CFA francs in payment appropriations. The stated objective is to strengthen sports participation, support youth empowerment, and ensure effective management of the sector.

Khady Diène Gaye, Minister of Youth and Sports, reminded the committee that the project is part of the National Transformation Agenda (ANT) and the National Development Strategy (SND). She stated: "We aim to build a healthy and fulfilled youth, capable of actively contributing to the socio-economic transformation of the country."

 

Key reforms for the sector

 

Among the key measures, the National Youth Council (CNJS) will be replaced by a Youth Advisory Council of Senegal (CCJS) to better represent young people. The Sports Code, recently adopted by the Council of Ministers, now governs sports and limits the terms of office for leaders of sports organizations.

The minister added: "We are also launching the 'Educational Communities for All' program, with the rehabilitation and equipping of CDEPS and youth and citizenship centers."

The ministry is focusing on grassroots sports and infrastructure. "We plan to build 25 multi-purpose sports fields in 2025 and another 50 in 2026," the minister stated. Monitoring and regularizing the construction of 12 unfinished stadiums are intended to ensure their completion. Collaboration with municipalities for the financing and maintenance of infrastructure is also planned.

 

Heading towards the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games

 

The preparation for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games (YOG) involves a structured communication plan and the creation of performance centers. "We will closely monitor the infrastructure in Saly and Diamniadio to ensure a lasting legacy for the country," stated Diène Gaye.

The ministry plans to streamline sports and cultural associations (ASC) to limit rivalries and violence. The development of sports other than football, such as basketball, martial arts, para-sports, swimming, Scrabble, and traditional sports, is also on the agenda.

“We will support young people in their use of social media and in preventing addiction, and we will support young entrepreneurs and agricultural vacationers to promote their economic empowerment,” the minister added. Particular attention will be paid to rural and isolated areas to ensure equitable territorial planning.

For her, the success of this budget depends on cooperation with local authorities, sports federations, and private partners. "Our goal is to strengthen grassroots sports participation, guarantee the legacy of the 2026 Youth Olympic Games, and promote civic engagement among young people, while ensuring transparent and effective management of public resources," she concluded.