November 2025

From 4 to 9 November 2025, Dakar en Jeux Festival animated the streets of the city and the Olympic sites ! Since its launch in 2022, this festival combining music, art, sport and local culture has become a central feature of the build-up to Africa’s first Olympic event.

Thousands of young people took part in sports sessions, health-education activities, and cultural events across Dakar, Diamniadio, and Saly. The week featured an international U17 futsal tournament, free concerts, and workshops promoting Olympic values. From youth engagement and talent development to health and well-being as well as cultural initiatives, the festival activates the YOG’s Olympic legacy ahead of the Games. The event was also an opportunity for the organisers to unveil the official Dakar 2026 mascot Ayo, a young lion, whose name means “joy” in Yoruba, and reflects the optimism and dynamism of African youth. To learn more, click here!