Dakar is this week honouring the enduring legacy of former President Abdou Diouf, with a series of events dedicated to his memory from Tuesday, September 2, to Saturday, September 6, 2025.
Organised by the Abdou Diouf Sport-Vertu Foundation, the programme blends conferences, exhibitions, and testimonies from political and cultural figures, reflecting a national effort to celebrate the intellectual and moral influence of the man who led Senegal for nearly two decades.
The celebrations opened at the Museum of Black Civilizations in Dakar, where Professor Mouhamed Abdallah Ly, the museum’s director, welcomed participants.
Moustapha Tall, president of the Abdou Diouf Sport-Vertu Foundation, delivered opening remarks, followed by an official message from the representative of Senegal’s Head of State.
The inaugural lecture was delivered by the philosopher Souleymane Bachir Diagne, whose insights explored Diouf’s vision and lasting impact. The programme also featured testimonials from prominent figures including Aminata Mbengue Ndiaye, Mansour Mbaye, Sidiki Kaba, Abdoulaye Makhtar Diop, and architect Pierre Goudiaby Atepa.
These sessions highlighted Diouf’s pivotal role in the democratic consolidation of Senegal, his commitment to governance, and his influence on national development policies.
Born in 1935, Abdou Diouf assumed the presidency on 1 January 1981 following the voluntary resignation of Léopold Sédar Senghor, and led Senegal until 2000.
During his tenure, he oversaw the strengthening of the multiparty system and implemented significant economic reforms, navigating both domestic challenges and international donor influences.
Re-elected in 1983, 1988, and 1993, Diouf’s presidency concluded with his defeat by Abdoulaye Wade in March 2000, a transition widely celebrated as a landmark democratic moment.
Diouf’s influence extended internationally when he served as Secretary General of the International Organization of La Francophonie from 2003 to 2014, promoting the French language and democratic values across the Francophone world.
His dedication to dialogue and mediation continues to inspire respect and recognition in Senegal and beyond.
The week-long tribute in Dakar not only commemorates Diouf’s political and diplomatic achievements but also seeks to engage new generations in reflecting on the principles of governance, dialogue, and civic responsibility that defined his career.
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