Senegal will host the Francophonie Games in 2031 for the first time in its history.
The country has been selected to organize the 11th edition of this international sporting and cultural event, the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF) announced.
The decision was officially approved during the 134th session of the Permanent Council of La Francophonie (CPF), chaired by the organization's Secretary-General, Louise Mushikiwabo, according to an OIF statement.
This selection marks another milestone for Senegal in hosting major international sporting events, as Dakar is set to host the Youth Olympic Games this year, FAAPA reports.
"By choosing Senegal, the Francophone community is placing its trust in experience," said Louise Mushikiwabo, emphasizing that the country will be able to draw on its organizational expertise and infrastructure to deliver an edition worthy of the young participants' talents.
The OIF Secretary-General also praised the quality of Guinea's bid, which competed against Senegal's to host the event.
The selection of the host country follows a process launched in 2022 and subsequently reopened in 2025 through calls for applications issued by the International Committee of the Francophonie Games (CIJF).
The Senegalese and Guinean delegations presented their bids on September 10 during the 28th meeting of the CIJF Steering Council. After reviewing the Evaluation Commission's report, the Steering Council issued a recommendation, which was subsequently adopted by the Permanent Council of La Francophonie.
Senegal must now sign an agreement with the OIF outlining the practical arrangements for organizing the event within the established deadlines.
Established in 1987, the Francophonie Games are held every four years, bringing together young talents from French-speaking countries for sporting competitions and cultural contests.
The most recent edition took place in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, in 2023. The next edition, scheduled for 2027, will be held in Armenia.
With Senegal selected to host the 2031 edition, Africa is once again preparing to welcome this international event celebrating youth, cultural diversity and sporting excellence.