The Kédougou region will resonate this Monday with the celebration of Armed Forces Day, which this year will focus on community engagement and sharing with the local population. The event will take place at the Fodé Ba military camp, starting at 9:30 a.m., and will be presided over by the Governor of the Kédougou region.

This 22nd edition, themed "The Armed Forces, partners of the Youth Olympic Games, Dakar 2026", highlights the strategic and civic role of the Senegalese army, beyond its traditional missions of defense and security.

An open day to bring the army closer to the public

The 34th Infantry Battalion will exceptionally open its doors to the general public for this commemoration. The program includes:

1. A solemn arms ceremony followed by a military parade paying tribute to the professionalism and discipline of the troops;
2. A visit to the exhibition stands held by the various Defense and Security Forces (DSF), allowing visitors to discover up close their missions, equipment and innovations.

These activities aim to strengthen the links between citizens and their armed forces, but also to inspire vocations among young people, many of whom are showing a growing interest in defense professions.

A commitment to youth and peace

The choice of theme is not insignificant. A few months before the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, the Senegalese army intends to reaffirm its contribution to the success of this international event, both in terms of security and logistics.

"Our armed forces are more than ever partners in the development and influence of Senegal," a local military source emphasizes.

The ceremony will be marked by the presence of all the region's defense and security forces, mobilized to showcase their achievements and their commitment to serving the nation. Captain Djibril Coulibaly, unit commander of the Command, Support, and Services Company (CCAS), will command the troops during the ceremony.

A celebration of patriotism and national pride

Beyond the ceremony, this day is intended as a moment of unity, recognition, and national pride. It pays tribute to the men and women in uniform who, every day, ensure the peace and security of the territory.

The inhabitants of Kédougou are invited to come in large numbers to discover, exchange and share with their armed forces — these sentinels of the flag who embody the values of discipline, loyalty and service to the nation.