Senegal to become first country in Africa to host an Olympic event
BUENOS AIRES — Senegal will host the Summer Youth Olympic Games in 2022. The historic decision was approved unanimously on Monday by the International Olympic Committee. Senegal will become the first country in Africa to host an Olympic event. The Mayor of Dakar, Soham El Wardini, is confident that Dakar and Senegal will host a memorable Games.
Q: What is your reaction to the IOC’s decision?
A: “ First I want to congratulate the three other African countries, Nigeria, Tunisia and Botswana, that also applied to host the Games. I congratulate them because finally it is an honour for Africa to organise these games. It is a real proud moment for Senegal that proposed a visionary and ambitious project to be the host of Dakar 2022.”
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Q: Do you have enough venues for all the events?
A: “Senegal already had big stadiums for football and track and field. And a few months ago we inaugurated a big arena for wrestling and another for multiple sports. We chose three cities, starting with Dakar, the capital. We also have Diamniadio, which is a newly developed city that will be the second biggest urban location after the capital. Diamniadio is not far from the new Blaise Diagne Airport. The Amadou Mactar Mbow University will be the Olympic Village for athletes and delegations. Diamniadio also has a big convention centre. Finally the water events will take place in Saly on the coast. In the video of our presentation, you can see how our country is touristic and there are many hotels and nice paces to discover.”
Q: You are the new mayor of Dakar. How will you face this new challenge?
A: “Start the job right now! Work to strengthen security and do everything possible to make Senegal, and Dakar in particular, ready and beautiful for welcoming the Youth Olympic Games 2022.”
