Senegal celebrated its 65th independence anniversary on Friday, April 4, 2025, in a significant event presided over by the President of the Republic, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.
This commemoration, rich in symbolism and national pride, took place in Dakar along Mamadou Dia Boulevard—previously known as General de Gaulle Boulevard—renamed in honor of the former President of the Council of Ministers at the dawn of independence.
President Faye was joined by his counterparts from Mauritania, Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani; Guinea-Bissau, Umaro Sissoco Embaló; The Gambia, Adama Barrow; and the Vice-President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima, highlighting the strong bonds and regional solidarity among these neighboring nations.
The day featured a grand civilian and military parade, with over 6,000 participants marching before an enthusiastic crowd. The event showcased Senegal’s rich cultural and historical heritage, with delegations representing traditional kingdoms alongside defense and security forces, symbols of the nation’s resilience and sovereignty. The theme for this edition, "Towards Technological and Industrial Sovereignty of the Armed Forces," reflects President Faye’s ambition to bolster the country’s autonomy, particularly through initiatives like modernizing military capabilities.
In his address, President Faye paid tribute to the defense and security forces for their outstanding organization of the parade and reaffirmed his commitment to national unity and African cooperation. The presence of neighboring heads of state also emphasized the importance of regional integration and dialogue for stability in West Africa.
Beyond its festive nature, this celebration served as an opportunity for Senegal to reaffirm its position on the continental stage, honoring its past while resolutely looking toward a sovereign and prosperous future.
Watch President Faye’s speech following the parade: