
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, chairman of the African Union Commission, has issued a message of encouragement to the ten African national teams qualified for the 2026 World Cup. He highlighted the unprecedented level of African representation in the finals, viewing it as a testament to the continuous progress of African football and the talent, resilience, and determination of the continent's players. Youssouf emphasized that this record participation is a source of pride for the entire continent. He also noted the universal reach of the World Cup as an event that brings people together through sport, creating a space where nations unite around a shared passion for football. The chairman underscored the central role of youth in African football's performance, stating that the participating teams represent not only their respective countries but also the aspirations of millions of young Africans. The African Union also paid tribute to the players, coaches, sports officials, and supporters who contributed to the teams' qualification. The organization encouraged the teams to compete with discipline, integrity, and respect for fair play values, expressing hope that their performances will further strengthen Africa's position on the global football stage.
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Must ReadUganda has put forward a new candidate for the UN Secretary-General position, a development that follows former Senegalese President Macky Sall's recent presentation to the General Assembly. Sall, who was the sole African candidate until now, spoke for 90 minutes on July 23, advocating for a UN focused on dialogue, listening, and consultation, drawing on nearly 40 years of public affairs experience. His candidacy had already generated controversy as it was presented by Burundi, then chair of the African Union, rather than by Senegal, which had not officially supported its former president. The selection process, which began in late November 2025, involves consultations among member states before the Security Council recommends a name to the General Assembly, which will ultimately appoint the successor to António Guterres later this year.
Must ReadPresident Bassirou Diomaye Faye confirmed the official launch of his new political party, Kiiraay – Les Patriotes Républicains, following its constitutive general assembly at the King Fahd Palace in Dakar. The President announced the party's formation on social media, explaining that "Kiiraay" in Wolof means "that which protects." This meaning is reflected in the party's logo, which features an umbrella protecting a map of Senegal. President Faye stated that the party was founded to serve the Republic, described as the home for all citizens, and is open to all republicans without distinction. He concluded his message with the party's slogan: "La Patrie d’abord!" This announcement marks the transformation of the "Diomaye Président" coalition into a structured political party, with the President himself presiding over the event.
Must ReadPresident Bassirou Diomaye Faye announced the formation of his new political party, "Kiiraay, Les Patriotes Républicains," during its constitutive general assembly held on Saturday, July 25, at the King Fahd Palace in Dakar. The new party emerges from the transformation of the "Diomaye Président" coalition that supported his 2024 presidential candidacy. President Faye will personally lead Kiiraay, departing from his previous stance of separating the presidential function from party leadership, a position he adopted upon taking office, which led him to resign as Secretary General of Pastef. The name "Kiiraay" means "that which protects" in Wolof, symbolizing the President's intention for the party to serve as a safeguard for Senegalese citizens. This development occurs amidst a period of political realignment in Senegal, marked by significant departures from both Pastef and the Alliance for the Republic APR. The launch of Kiiraay is also seen as a test of loyalty for several ministers close to the President of the National Assembly, Ousmane Sonko, including Déthié Fall, Moustapha Guirassy, and Cheikh Tidiane Dièye, whose presence and potential adherence to the new structure will be closely observed as an indicator of their alignment in the evolving dynamic between the two executive leaders. Following its establishment, Kiiraay plans to embark on a national tour across Senegal.