Continuing its historic journey through Casamance, the YOG flamemade a highly symbolic stop in the department of Oussouye.Â
Welcomed by local authorities and the local community, the torch relay team received a spiritual blessing from the traditional rulers of Kassa.
A historic source of pride for Senegal and AfricaÂ
Speaking to the torch relay team and the departmental authorities who had come to welcome them, the King of Kalobone, Koudiossobo Diatta, made no secret of his emotion at this unprecedented event for the continent. “ Ever since we learnt that Africa would be hosting the YOG, and that Senegal would be organising them, we have been offering prayers that these Games may take place under the very best conditions, and that everyone may come and take part.”Â
Aware of the exceptional nature of this first Olympic sporting event to be held on African soil, the monarch emphasised the historic significance of this selection. For him, hosting these Games extends far beyond Senegal’s borders:Â
“It is a source of pride for the whole of Africa, for the whole of Senegal. It is very difficult today to express our joy, because this is a truly exceptional event. Because we do not know when Africa will host these Games again.”
