🇸🇳
Source · Senegal
SeneNews
50 articles published on Baobab Pulse
🇸🇳SeneNews·9 hours ago
Senegalese Football Federation president's comments on team doctor spark international controversy
Abdoulaye Fall, president of the Senegalese Football Federation FSF, has ignited widespread controversy following his public statements regarding the national team's doctor, Dr. Fédior. During a press conference reviewing the 2026 World Cup, Fall claimed he "late discovered" that Dr. Fédior was a gynecologist and that "the players were not convinced." These remarks have drawn significant attention from international media and social networks, extending beyond internal Senegalese football discussions. Fall's comments have raised questions about the choice of the team doctor and the FSF's operational procedures. Dr. Fédior, a well-known figure in Senegalese football medicine, has had his competence publicly challenged despite having stated in 2018 that he had extensive experience in sports medicine, beginning with US Gorée in 1986, alongside his gynecology specialization. The controversy has led to inquiries about why Dr. Fédior remained part of the medical staff if his profile was deemed unsuitable for a World Cup, and why his specialization is now being highlighted as a reason for Senegal's performance. Furthermore, Fall's public attribution of the team's difficulties to a member of its medical staff has exposed the FSF's recruitment, validation, and monitoring processes for national delegation officials.
2 min read
🇸🇳SeneNews·10 hours ago
Idrissa Gana Gueye responds after Abdoulaye Fall's press conference on Senegal's World Cup elimination
The controversy surrounding Senegal's elimination from the 2026 World Cup continues, with Idrissa Gana Gueye posting an enigmatic message on social media shortly after a press conference by Abdoulaye Fall, president of the Senegalese Football Federation. Fall had justified the decision to part ways with coach Pape Thiaw, criticizing the team's preparation, technical choices, and staff operations. Gueye, who had previously supported Thiaw, did not directly name Fall or Thiaw but hinted at a different interpretation of events. He wrote, "Alhamdoulillah, in all circumstances. Proud of you, guys! But... now, let's talk about it. What do you think? Since the end of the match, I can't find the words or truly understand what happened. I do have my own little idea... And you?" This refers to the match against Belgium, where Senegal led 2-0 until the 85th minute before losing, leading to their World Cup elimination. Gueye's message is expected to fuel further debate on accountability for the failure, suggesting some players may have a different perspective than the Federation.
1 min read
Must Read🇸🇳SeneNews·11 hours ago
Houthis retaliate against Saudi Arabia after Sanaa airport attack, escalating Yemen conflict
Yemen's Houthi rebels launched strikes against Saudi Arabia on Monday, accusing the kingdom of attacking Sanaa's airport, which the Houthis control. This action reignites the conflict after years of relative calm. The internationally recognized Yemeni government, supported by Riyadh, claimed responsibility for the airport attack, stating it aimed to prevent an Iranian plane carrying a Houthi delegation from landing. The delegation was returning from Tehran after attending the funeral of former supreme leader Ali Khamenei. The Yemeni Ministry of Defense stated that "the Houthi terrorist militias supported by the Iranian regime" insisted on allowing an Iranian plane to violate Yemeni airspace, leading to the targeting of the airport runway. Houthi media reported the plane ultimately landed in Hodeidah, a rebel-controlled coastal city. Iran condemned the attack as a violation of Yemen's sovereignty. Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree accused Riyadh of the attack and vowed retaliation. Shortly after, the Saudi-led coalition announced it intercepted ballistic missiles fired by the Houthis in southern Saudi Arabia. Andreas Krieg, a security expert at King's College London, suggested Saudi involvement in the airport attack is more likely given the age and condition of Yemeni fighter jets. The Yemeni government had earlier accused the rebels of preventing an International Committee of the Red Cross ICRC plane from leaving Sanaa airport and detaining its crew, though an ICRC spo
3 min read
🇸🇳SeneNews·11 hours ago
Senegal football federation president questions team doctor's specialty, doctor cites extensive sports medicine experience
A controversy has emerged regarding the management of the Lions during the 2026 World Cup. Abdoulaye Fall, president of the Senegalese Football Federation FSF, stated during a press conference that he only recently discovered the team doctor, Dr. Fédior, is a gynecologist. Fall suggested that this specialty was not suitable for a World Cup team, claiming players were not convinced. However, these statements contradict Dr. Fédior's own declarations from 2018, where he explained his long-standing involvement in sports medicine. Dr. Fédior clarified that while gynecology was his initial specialty, sports medicine has been his primary passion since his fourth year of studies. He noted that he pursued sports medicine as an optional module and has continuously practiced it with clubs, including US Gorée in 1986, and national teams for decades. This indicates that despite his background in gynecology, Dr. Fédior possesses extensive experience in sports medical care.
1 min read
Breaking🇸🇳SeneNews·11 hours ago
US military launches first marine drone attack on Iranian port
The United States military announced it launched unidirectional attack marine drones against the Iranian port of Bandar Abbas, marking the first combat use of these vessels. On Sunday, three Corsair marine drones, which are unmanned surface vessels, targeted a "submarine and ship maintenance facility" in the southern port of Bandar Abbas, according to the US Central Command Centcom on X. Centcom stated that these strikes "degraded Iran's ability to continue attacking commercial vessels." The command also shared a video on X showing the marine drones hitting the maritime facilities, causing two docks to explode. Last month, the US military used a Corsair drone, first deployed to the Middle East in March, to rescue two airmen after their helicopter crashed in the Near East. The Corsair, designed by Texas-based Saronic Technologies, is a 24-foot diesel-powered "autonomous surface vessel" that can be launched at sea, allowing larger ships to deploy and retrieve it without returning to port.
1 min read
Must Read🇸🇳SeneNews·11 hours ago
US and Iran escalate hostilities in the Middle East, UN Secretary-General expresses deep concern
Hostilities between the United States and Iran have intensified with reciprocal strikes. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern over the escalating military tensions in the region, highlighting the dangers of a large-scale confrontation. The US announced it bombed "dozens of targets," while Tehran claimed to have struck bases used by the US in Jordan, Bahrain, and Kuwait. The US military also reported launching unidirectional attack drones against the Iranian port of Bandar Abbas, targeting a submarine and ship maintenance facility. Despite renewed hostilities, 14 vessels, half of which were commercial, transited the Strait of Hormuz. Former US President Donald Trump stated the US is reinstating a naval blockade of Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz and plans to impose a 20% tax on maritime freight passing through the strait to cover security costs. Iran warned it would not allow the US to interfere in the management of the Strait of Hormuz, with armed forces spokesman Ebrahim Zolfaghari stating any cooperation with Washington by Gulf countries would be considered an "act of war." The Yemeni government ordered the closure of the country's airports after striking Sanaa airport, held by pro-Iranian Houthi rebels, to prevent an Iranian plane from landing. The UK government announced a law designating Iran's Revolutionary Guards as a national security threat. Iran's state television reported "warning shots" against two ships attempting to illegally cross
8 min read
🇸🇳SeneNews·12 hours ago
US immigration police involved in another fatal shooting in Maine
A 26-year-old Colombian man was killed in Biddeford, Maine, following a shooting involving federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement ICE agents. Human rights groups identified the victim, stating he was authorized to work in the United States. This incident occurred a week after an ICE agent fatally shot a Mexican man in Texas, intensifying criticism against the agency responsible for implementing Donald Trump's immigration enforcement policies. Maine Governor Janet Mills indicated that state police are collaborating with federal authorities to investigate the circumstances, with the FBI also conducting an inquiry. A witness reported hearing at least four gunshots after seeing ICE agents surround a white sedan. Crystal Cron, executive director of Presente Maine, stated that they would not allow this death to be a mere footnote. Senator Angus King of Maine informed reporters that he spoke with the Secretary of Homeland Security, Markwayne Mullin, and was told the victim had an arrest warrant related to his immigration status. King called for a "full, transparent, and open investigation." Media images showed a security perimeter and a forensic police vehicle at the scene. Protesters against ICE gathered in the area. Biddeford Mayor Liam LaFountain expressed that the community deserves clear answers regarding the incident and acknowledged the fear and uncertainty it caused. ICE agents, tasked with implementing mass deportations, have faced nationwide criticism for their aggres
2 min read
🇸🇳SeneNews·12 hours ago
Senegalese Football Federation president Abdoulaye Fall reveals internal issues during 2026 World Cup
Abdoulaye Fall, president of the Senegalese Football Federation, has shed light on internal dysfunctions within the national team, known as the Tanière, during the recent 2026 World Cup. Speaking at a press conference on July 13, Fall indicated that tensions between certain players and the technical staff impacted the team's performance. He referenced recent statements by midfielder Pape Gueye, suggesting they pointed to issues with the technical staff. Fall confirmed that problems existed within the squad, stating, "There were players who had control over the coach. There were some we didn't dare to take out, didn't dare to bring in, didn't dare to call up." Without naming specific individuals, Fall implied that the influence of certain international players affected sporting decisions, contributing to the team's difficulties during the World Cup.
1 min read
🇸🇳SeneNews·12 hours ago
Ivory Coast road accident kills at least 24, injures 36
At least 24 people died and 36 were injured in a road accident in Ivory Coast on Monday, according to the Ministry of Transport. The incident occurred around 11:30 AM on July 13, 2026, on the Touba – Biankouma road, specifically on the Bafing bridge. The accident involved a passenger coach from a transport company traveling from Odienné to Yamoussoukro. Out of 69 people on board, including the crew, 24 were killed and 36 were injured. Rescue teams are currently working to locate missing victims. The Ministry of Transport has announced an investigation into the crash. Road accidents are frequent in Ivory Coast, often attributed to poor road conditions, vehicle maintenance issues, and driver misconduct. The ministry reports that an average of 1,000 to 1,500 people die annually on Ivory Coast's roads, with 1.5 million vehicles in circulation. In July 2025, a collision between a truck and a public transport coach in the northern part of the country resulted in 16 deaths and 51 injuries.
1 min read
Must Read🇸🇳SeneNews·13 hours ago
Ousmane Diagne appointed president of the Constitutional Council
President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has appointed Ousmane Diagne as president of the Constitutional Council, effective Monday, July 13, 2026, according to official decree n° 2026-1318. Diagne, a career magistrate, replaces the late Mamadou Badio Camara. His professional background includes serving as prosecutor general at the Dakar Court of Appeal, first advocate general at the Supreme Court, and Minister of Justice, Keeper of the Seals. This appointment is part of a broader renewal of Senegal's highest institutions. The Constitutional Council is responsible for overseeing the constitutionality of laws and the regularity of electoral consultations.
4 min read
Must Read🇸🇳SeneNews·13 hours ago
Kenyan politicians exploit impoverished youth for political violence
In Kenya, politicians are reportedly hiring unemployed and impoverished youth, known as "goons," to disrupt political rallies, incite riots, and attack opponents. This practice, which has intensified a year before elections, involves payments ranging from 500 Kenyan shillings 3.3 euros for local leaders to 1,000 shillings for members of parliament. Many of these young men, like Marius and Daniel, describe being drawn into this work due to a lack of other opportunities, despite the risks involved, including physical injury. They often receive alcohol and drugs before operations. The police are frequently accused of being passive or even complicit during these incidents. While the government denies using these groups, observers note that all political factions employ their services. The phenomenon is not new; former President Daniel arap Moi was accused of using a similar youth movement in the 1990s, and current President William Ruto was once associated with that group. The use of goons has reportedly increased since widespread anti-government protests in 2024 and 2025. Researchers and human rights organizations warn that this trend could undermine free and fair elections in 2027. Many goons express a desire for legitimate employment, but Kenya's job market offers limited opportunities for its large youth population. They view their involvement as a way to secure a share of the benefits within a corrupt political system.
6 min read
🇸🇳SeneNews·13 hours ago
Babacar Faye resigns from Pastef after ten years, joins presidential initiative
Babacar Faye, a member of the national political bureau of Pastef-Les Patriotes, has announced his resignation from the party after a decade of activism. He stated that he is relinquishing all his responsibilities within the party, including his roles as vice-coordinator of the Fatick communal section, honorary member of the Fatick departmental coordination, national secretary for electoral operations, member of the national political bureau, national council, and the national card placement commission. Faye thanked Ousmane Sonko, the party president, for the trust placed in him since 2022, particularly in managing the party's electoral strategy and its various coalitions. He also acknowledged the contributions of his colleagues in building and strengthening the party's electoral framework. Faye cited a new political choice as the reason for his departure, stating his decision to join a presidential initiative aimed at creating a new political party. He affirmed that this choice was made responsibly and with conviction, and that he intends to continue his commitment to serving Senegal while upholding his guiding values.
1 min read
🇸🇳SeneNews·13 hours ago
Abdoulaye Fall discusses the absence of a preparation plan for the 2026 World Cup
Abdoulaye Fall, president of the Senegalese Football Federation FSF, revealed during a press conference on July 13, 2026, that the Senegalese national team lacked a proper preparation plan for the 2026 World Cup. He attributed this to inappropriate decisions by the technical staff and highlighted logistical issues that confused players. Fall stated that the FSF initiated the search for friendly match opponents, with him proposing matches based on contacts with other federations. He mentioned a validated match against the United States and another against Saudi Arabia, both approved by the coach. However, a third match against South Korea was not played because the coach did not validate it, despite the national technical director's conviction that it should have taken place. Fall also pointed to logistical problems, such as the choice of Raleigh as a base camp before a match in Charlotte, which players questioned. He explained that the FSF had initially selected the Eldridge hotel as the base camp, which he found excellent and functional, and which was validated by FIFA. However, coach Pape Thiaw rejected this choice, seeking an alternative with more space for walks. The new hotel, despite being presented as impeccable, reportedly caused significant issues upon arrival, leading Fall to express his discouragement. These organizational problems are believed to have impacted the team's preparation for the 2026 World Cup.
6 min read
🇸🇳SeneNews·14 hours ago
Y'en a Marre coordinator Aliou Sané warns President Faye against hosting former President Sall
Aliou Sané, coordinator of the Y'en a Marre movement, has voiced strong opposition to the idea of former President Macky Sall being officially received at the Palace of the Republic. Sané cautioned President Bassirou Diomaye Faye about the symbolic implications of such an act, especially given that many families are still seeking justice for political violence that occurred during Sall's administration. He stated that honoring Macky Sall while numerous deaths, alleged torture cases, and imprisonments remain unexplained would be deeply hurtful to victims and their relatives. Sané believes that the pursuit of truth and justice is a significant expectation for many Senegalese affected by the political tensions preceding the 2024 transition. He also mentioned that an official reception for the former head of state could exacerbate public frustration and misunderstanding, particularly concerning the controversial interpretation law. According to Sané, such an initiative might be seen as a disregard for grieving families and those who suffered from arrests and detentions during recent political crises.
1 min read
Must Read🇸🇳SeneNews·15 hours ago
Ousmane Sonko criticizes French ambassador over alleged interference in Senegal's internal affairs
During the inauguration of a Pastef office in Mbacké, Ousmane Sonko strongly criticized the French Ambassador to Senegal, Christine Fages, accusing her of interfering in the country's internal affairs. Sonko addressed the controversy surrounding diplomatic passports, stating that their management is the prerogative of the President of the Republic, not the Prime Minister. He noted that President Bassirou Diomaye Faye initiated a policy to rationalize their allocation in 2024 to maintain Senegal's credibility. Sonko believes certain citizens, such as businesspeople, religious dignitaries, and those needing medical care abroad, could legitimately receive diplomatic passports. He then targeted the French diplomatic representation, alleging that the ambassador offered facilitated visa procedures to religious leaders as an alternative to denied diplomatic passports. Sonko stated he directly confronted Christine Fages, asking her to refrain from interventions he considers internal to Senegal's affairs. He drew a parallel to a hypothetical Senegalese ambassador intervening similarly with French officials. This incident follows previous tensions, including a December 2025 criticism by the Senegalese Ministry of Justice regarding the French ambassador's statements on Madiambal Diagne's extradition case, which were deemed inappropriate.
1 min read
🇸🇳SeneNews·16 hours ago
Ousmane Sonko highlights weaknesses in African football after early World Cup 2026 eliminations
Ousmane Sonko, President of the National Assembly and leader of Pastef/Les Patriotes, has analyzed African teams' performance at the 2026 World Cup in an interview with Al Jazeera English. Despite an increased number of African selections in the tournament, Sonko emphasized that this was a result of FIFA's tournament expansion, not a special concession. He pointed to persistent structural weaknesses in African football, particularly concerning management, team administration, and discipline, as reasons for the disappointing outcomes, including for Senegal, which he believes had the potential to advance further. Sonko called for an urgent reevaluation to improve the sport's management and team performance across the continent. While acknowledging that some victorious teams deserved their success, he suggested that not all remaining teams were necessarily superior to those eliminated from Africa.
4 min read
🇸🇳SeneNews·16 hours ago
First Lady Marie Khone Faye encourages girls in STEM at Miss Maths and Miss Sciences 2026 reception
First Lady Marie Khone Faye met with the 2026 national winners of the Miss Maths and Miss Sciences competitions, Khadidiatou Ka and Sokhna Mame Bousso Mbacké, at the Presidential Palace. The First Lady emphasized the importance of promoting girls' access to scientific careers and removing barriers that limit their presence in these fields. She highlighted her commitment to education and female excellence, recalling her support in March 2026 during a visit to the Diourbel Scientific Excellence High School, where she awarded scholarships and school kits to six girls with high academic averages. During discussions with the laureates, topics included challenges in girls' schooling, conditions for academic success, and ways to strengthen their orientation towards science. Marie Khone Faye urged young Senegalese girls to believe in their abilities, strive for excellence, and pursue scientific paths. She also acknowledged the families and teachers who supported the students' success, presenting them with gifts and awards of encouragement.
1 min read
🇸🇳SeneNews·17 hours ago
Morocco and Senegal celebrate shared history with photographic exhibition in Dakar
The Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in Dakar, in partnership with the newspaper Le Soleil, is organizing a photographic exhibition titled "Morocco-Senegal: a shared history, a destiny in the making." The exhibition, which opens on July 14, 2026, at the Residence of the Moroccan Embassy in Dakar, commemorates the 27th anniversary of King Mohammed VI's accession to the throne. It will showcase the spiritual, cultural, and human ties between Morocco and Senegal over several decades. Featuring photographs from Le Soleil's archives, the exhibition highlights key moments in the relationship between Rabat and Dakar since independence, including official visits and meetings between leaders. Beyond the historical aspect, the initiative aims to emphasize a common heritage of religious, cultural, human, and economic connections, while also fostering discussion on future cooperation. The opening will be followed by a conference led by Dr. Bakary Sambe, regional director of the Timbuktu Institute – African Center for Peace Studies, focusing on the historical foundations, strategic issues, and prospects of the Moroccan-Senegalese partnership. The event will gather Senegalese authorities, diplomatic representatives, cultural and media figures, and members of the Moroccan community in Senegal.
1 min read
Must Read🇸🇳SeneNews·18 hours ago
Senegal's 2026 baccalaureate results reveal low admission rate and educational challenges
Provisional results for Senegal's 2026 baccalaureate exams show a concerning situation, with only 26.45% of candidates admitted. Out of 177,443 registered candidates, 4,983 did not sit for the exams. Among the 172,460 who composed, only 45,614 were admitted directly. While 55,135 candidates are eligible for the second round, these figures highlight significant issues within the educational system, including academic failure and school dropout. The nearly 5,000 absent candidates also raise questions about potential underlying problems such as precarious living conditions, health issues, or school abandonment. The article suggests these results should prompt a national discussion on the quality of education, learning conditions, disparities between institutions, student guidance, and youth support, emphasizing that the baccalaureate is a key indicator of the country's capacity to prepare its youth for future challenges. It calls for a broader reflection on strengthening the Senegalese educational system and providing more opportunities for young people.
4 min read
🇸🇳SeneNews·18 hours ago
Serigne Saliou Diagne criticizes Ousmane Sonko for impact on the press
Serigne Saliou Diagne, administrator of Le Quotidien, marked the newspaper's 7000th issue by reflecting on its journey and challenges. He strongly criticized Ousmane Sonko and his Pastef movement, accusing them of endangering the private press through a destructive policy. Diagne stated that Pastef's arrival in power led to an agenda aimed at destabilizing and destroying the private press, leaving significant repercussions. He cited unpaid service invoices from public institutions, exclusion from the Press Aid and Support Fund during the last distribution, and a boycott in government communication spheres. Diagne expressed regret over the weakening socio-economic situation of all collaborators, describing unprecedented situations that demotivated and frustrated teams. He believes that those responsible for this campaign now appear ridiculous as their influence has waned, and they are seeking to distance themselves from past actions. Despite these challenges, Diagne urged readers to maintain faith in the newspaper, emphasizing that the 7000th issue provides 7000 reasons to believe in its mission to uphold democracy and combat arbitrary rule and populism.
5 min read
🇸🇳SeneNews·19 hours ago
Drug trafficking network dismantled in Almadies, four suspects arrested
The Division of Criminal Investigations DIC recently dismantled a drug trafficking network in the Almadies district of Dakar, leading to the arrest of four suspects. The operation resulted in the seizure of 96 bottles of nitrous oxide, 562 capsules, bulk MDMA, 175,000 CFA francs, and five mobile phones. The arrested individuals are D. Kébé, a freight forwarder; S. C. Diakhaté, a security guard; A. Sarr, a taxi driver; and M. Sarr, identified as the main suspect. Investigators reportedly used an infiltration strategy by ordering drugs to identify network members. This led to the arrest of D. Kébé, who then implicated A. Sarr. A. Sarr was apprehended in his taxi at the Léopold Sédar Senghor stadium parking lot, where police found several cartons of nitrous oxide bottles. Subsequent investigations led to the arrests of S. C. Diakhaté, where MDMA was allegedly found, and M. Sarr, at whose home 78 bottles of nitrous oxide were seized. During his questioning, M. Sarr claimed his supply came from a provider known as "Phantom," who he stated is based in Switzerland. The DIC is currently working to verify this declaration as investigations continue to identify potential accomplices and determine the full extent of the network's activities.
4 min read
🇸🇳SeneNews·19 hours ago
Lamine Diatta retained as general manager of the national team despite staff changes
The Senegalese Football Federation FSF has decided to keep Lamine Diatta as the general manager of the national team, even after terminating the contracts of coach Pape Thiaw and his entire technical staff. This decision highlights the FSF's commitment to maintaining continuity in the team's administration as it prepares for upcoming competitions. Diatta, a former Senegalese international, is not affected by the reorganization initiated after the Lions of Teranga's elimination from the 2026 World Cup. The FSF aims to preserve logistical and organizational continuity while actively searching for a new coach to rebuild the team for future continental and international challenges.
4 min read
🇸🇳SeneNews·20 hours ago
Aboubacry Ba defends Pape Thiaw amid criticism after Senegal's World Cup elimination
Journalist Aboubacry Ba has defended coach Pape Thiaw following Senegal's elimination from the 2026 World Cup in the round of sixteen. Ba criticized the tendency to blame only the coach for the team's failure, highlighting that many individuals claimed credit after the continental victory at the Africa Cup of Nations CAN. He noted that after the CAN win, nearly 50 people shared bonuses and rewards, claiming responsibility for the Lions' success. Ba finds it inconsistent to now direct all criticism solely at the coach. He pointed to various issues reported during the World Cup campaign, including delays with the coach's contract, logistical problems, food issues, travel management, the presence of influencers, and administrative difficulties. Ba argued that it is difficult to hold one person responsible for all these problems. He called for the same logic to be applied to both successes and failures, stating that Pape Thiaw should not be solely blamed for the current disappointment, just as he was not solely responsible for the national joy during the CAN. This stance comes amidst ongoing discussions about the future of the technical staff and the governance of Senegalese football.
1 min read
🇸🇳SeneNews·20 hours ago
South African midfielder Jayden Adams dies at 25, depression cited in local reports
Jayden Adams, a 25-year-old South African midfielder who recently represented his country at the 2026 World Cup, has died. Authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances of his death. Local media reports suggest Adams was suffering from deep depression following the death of his grandmother two weeks prior, and some speculate about suicide. However, investigators have not yet provided any official confirmation regarding the cause of death. Adams participated in all three group stage matches for South Africa at the World Cup before being an unused substitute in their round of 16 loss to Canada.
4 min read