The command of Military Zone No. 5 celebrated Armed Forces Day this Monday, November 10th, as did forces throughout the country. The celebration honored the security forces for their daily service to the nation and paid tribute to the soldiers who fell on the battlefield. This year, the day had a special focus on youth, with the theme "The Armed Forces, Partners of the Youth Olympic Games, Dakar 2026."

On this occasion, the governor recalled the meaning of this national event which, he said, "offers the opportunity to pay tribute to those who have chosen the perilous profession of arms and who stand every day for the peace, stability and sovereignty of our country".

In communion with the people, Mor Talla Tine paid a vibrant tribute to our valiant security and defense forces. "On this solemn occasion, I join the people of the Ziguinchor region and the entire nation in paying well-deserved honor to our defense and security forces, not forgetting the soldiers who fell with weapons in hand. Officers, non-commissioned officers, and enlisted personnel, your profound sense of selflessness for the homeland, sometimes at the peril of your lives, is a shining example of selfless patriotism," he emphasized.

This day took place under the watchful eye of the command of military zone no. 5. Focusing on the theme of this edition, the head of the regional executive affirmed that it highlights the civic, sporting and international dimension of our armed forces.

"As Senegal prepares to host a major global event, the countdown to which has already been launched by His Excellency, Mr. President of the Republic, Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye, through this role as a partner of the Youth Olympic Games, our armed forces are showing that they are much more than the guardians of the nation. They are actors in development, mediators of cohesion and vectors of inspiration for future generations," the governor stressed before the military, civil and judicial authorities present, and the population that turned out in large numbers.

Mor Talla Tine seized the opportunity to call on young people to draw inspiration from the armed forces for their patriotism and love of country and nation. The head of the regional executive urged young people to be proud of their homeland and to mobilize for the collective effort.

For Mor Talla Tine, "by choosing this year's theme, the authorities have expressed their unwavering vision for Dakar-2026, not just an event to promote sport, but also an opportunity to reaffirm the army-nation concept, to celebrate youth and to promote citizenship and the Olympic values of friendship, respect and solidarity. Indeed, the armed forces embody the spirit of rigor, cohesion, discipline and pushing beyond limits. Through their patriotic commitment and their exemplary conduct in all circumstances, they stand alongside the nation and inspire the youth."