The date is set. From September 11 to 17, 2026, the city of Yekaterinburg will become the nerve center of global youth diplomacy. No fewer than 10,000 young people, including a large delegation from Africa, are expected for the new edition of the International Youth Festival.

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Far from being a mere festive gathering, the event defines itself as a "platform for dialogue and unity between peoples." The organizers' stated ambition is clear: to bring together 5,000 young Russians and an equal number of foreign participants to "build together a multipolar, just world based on cooperation."

Senegal's participation is no longer a novelty, but it takes on a new dimension for this 2026 edition. After the success of the 2024 delegation in Sochi, which included entrepreneurs, lawyers and media players, Senegal is now structuring its presence through a National Preparatory Committee (NPC).

For Fatoumata Diary Fall, president of the Senegalese committee, the stakes go beyond the symbolic: “The World Youth Festival is more than just a gathering. It constitutes a true platform for dialogue, cultural exchange, and lasting partnerships.” She also points out that this youth is the “foundation of future diplomatic, economic, and cultural cooperation” between the two nations.

This year's program promises to be particularly packed, covering strategic areas such as new technologies, artificial intelligence, creative industries, and public administration. Participants will not only engage in debates; they will be invited to "thematic challenges, TED-style talks, and workshops dedicated to contemporary global issues."

This dynamic is strongly encouraged by the Russian authorities. Ekaterina Safronova, advisor to the festival's management, emphasizes the strength of this bond: "Senegal and Russia have demonstrated that youth can be a powerful force for friendship between nations." She invites young Senegalese to embrace these spaces "where ideas are born that inspire great achievements."

While relations between Dakar and Moscow are already active in agriculture and energy, this youth-led bridge promises to consolidate long-term partnerships, particularly with agencies like Ruptly for the audiovisual sector.