The Government of Senegal’s government approved flood protection measures for Youth Olympic Games venues on Friday. Prime Minister Ahmadou Al Aminou Lo chaired the interministerial meeting in Dakar, where officials outlined a comprehensive strategy to safeguard infrastructure.
The rainy season poses a significant challenge. It ends only a few months before the games begin on October 31. Preventive measures are therefore essential to protect completed facilities.
Authorities will establish an operational task force. This unit will manage flooding and waste at competition and accommodation sites.
The team will deploy across key locations including the Diamniadio equestrian center, athletes’ villages, the TER railway route, and areas near Léopold Sédar Senghor Airport.
The government is also enforcing a zero-tolerance policy. Occupation of flood-prone areas will not be permitted. This approach supports the broader implementation of Law No. 2026-381, which strengthens local authorities’ role in flood prevention.
Multiple ministries will oversee the task force. These include sanitation, armed forces, urban planning, and environment portfolios. The Prime Minister’s office will coordinate their efforts.
The task force will work closely with the Dakar 2026 Organizing Committee and the International Olympic Committee’s Coordination Commission.
Senegal will host the first Youth Olympic Games ever held in Africa. Protecting Olympic infrastructure remains a top priority as the country prepares for this historic event.
