The announcement of a 500 million FCFA contribution from the Sénégal Solidaire National Foundation for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, intended to boost national solidarity, has instead ignited debate regarding the involvement of the presidential family in public affairs. President Bassirou Diomaye Faye announced the funding during the launch of the “Dundal JOJ” initiative, earmarked for purchasing tickets – including 200,000 for schools and associations – to allow children from disadvantaged neighborhoods to attend the games. Criticism arose from President Faye’s phrasing – “The First Lady asked me to tell you she will contribute 500 million” – drawing comparisons to previous administrations and raising concerns about a potential informal institutional role for the presidential family. Questions have also surfaced regarding the Sénégal Solidaire National Foundation’s relatively recent establishment (October 10, 2025) and its funding sources, as it doesn’t appear in the state budget and relies on unspecified external partners. Opponents are questioning how such a new organization could quickly amass such a substantial sum. Even within the President’s own Pastef party, concerns are being voiced about a return to past practices and potential enrichment.