Bassirou Diomaye Faye Sworn in as Senegal and Africa’s Youngest President
Bassirou Diomaye Faye, at just 44 years old, has been sworn in as the youngest president in Senegal and all of Africa. His historic first-round victory came just ten days after his release from prison, where he had been detained alongside other political opponents. The inauguration ceremony took place at an exhibition center in Diamniadio, near Dakar, where Faye pledged to fulfill the duties of President of the Republic of Senegal faithfully.
The event was attended by several African leaders, including Nigeria’s Bola Ahmed Tinubu. A formal transition of power from outgoing President Macky Sall will follow at the presidential palace in Dakar. Faye, a former tax inspector, is set to become Senegal’s fifth president since gaining independence from France in 1960.
During his campaign, conducted even while in detention, Faye outlined his priorities of national reconciliation, addressing the cost-of-living crisis, and combating corruption. He also expressed his intention to reclaim national sovereignty over key sectors such as oil, gas, and fishing, along with plans to bolster agriculture for food self-sufficiency.
Reaching out to investors, Faye reassured that Senegal will remain a friendly and reliable partner in productive cooperation. Internationally, he aims to reintegrate military-led Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger into the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) bloc.
Affectionately known as “Diomaye,” meaning “the honorable one” in the local Serer language, Faye secured victory in the March 24 election with 54.3% of the vote. Despite facing challenges ahead, including a lack of majority in the National Assembly, Faye represents a new generation of youthful politicians committed to addressing pressing issues like job creation in a country where the majority of the population is under 35, and unemployment stands at 20%.
