The Olympic flame arrived in Dakar on Saturday at Place du Souvenir, marking the beginning of a journey through the 14 regions of Senegal. This journey will take place in 30 stages and will conclude on October 31, when the flame will light the basin of the Youth Olympic Games at the Abdoulaye Wade Stadium during the opening ceremony. The flame will remain in the Dakar region until September 27 before traveling to Thiès, Louga, Saint-Louis, Matam, Diourbel, Fatick, Kaolack, Kaffrine, Tambacounda, Kedougou, Kolda, Sedhiou, Ziguinchor, Saly, and Rufisque. A large public celebration will be held to spread the spirit of the Youth Olympics across the country. The relay will highlight the historical, cultural, and natural heritage of Senegal, including Dakar and its promenade, the Casamance River, the peanut basin, and the island of Gorée. Cultural, educational, and sporting activities will accompany the journey. According to the organizing committee of the Youth Olympics, the tour "will highlight the 'teranga' spirit of Senegal, this tradition of hospitality and generosity specific to the country, while promoting the Olympic values of excellence, friendship, and respect." The arrival ceremony in Dakar included the March of the Linguères, a procession of about a hundred women that ended with the lighting of a basin on Place du Souvenir. The tour of Tambacounda will take place on October 14, and the mayor Papa Banda Dièye announced the details. "Receiving the Olympic flame in Tambacounda is a great honor and an exceptional opportunity. This event will put our commune in the spotlight of the world. It is a great victory for our youth, our athletes, and the entire population of eastern Senegal. We are ready to offer a memorable and universal welcome to this symbol of peace and fraternity," said the official when signing the agreement. "As an Olympian, I know what the Olympic flame can represent," said the president of the International Olympic Committee, Kirsty Coventry, a few weeks ago. "It generates enthusiasm. It unites. And it reminds us that sport has the power to inspire us to see greater." Even Kedougou will be able to feel the flame, more than 700 kilometers from Dakar, and dream as it passes. The general coordinator of Dakar 2026, Ibrahima Wade, wants to make these Youth Olympics "a model of success, a symbol of unity, and a source of national pride." To achieve this, the flame tour is undoubtedly an invaluable asset.