- Senegalese on Wednesday converged in a colourful and symbolic ceremony in the capital Dakar to mark their country’s 47th years of independence. On 4 April 1960, Senegal gained nationhood from France. 47 years down the line, Senegal has proven to be one of Africa’s leading democratic giants.
The occasion was graced by over 20 African leaders, including those from Libya, Ghana and Nigeria.
After mounting a guard of honour and march past by security forces, President Abdoulaye Wade, delivered a brief speech. The event was also punctuated with displays of Senegalese artistic talents in the form of singing and dancing.
The Senegalese President expressed delight about his country’s numerous achievements since it became independent. Mr Wade was enthusiastic about the women’s achievements in many fields of development. “Senegalese women have excelled in all fields of development but I am delighted that they are now doing well in the army,” he said.
President Wade assured Senegalese to snore well during their sleep at night because his country boasts of a “professional, well-disciplined and talented army” who busy themselves to guarantee security in the country.
Mr Wade thanked foreign Presidents, especially the Libyan leader, Muamar Gaddafi, for sparing their invaluable time to wine and dine with them Senegalese as they celebrate their national day.
Also speaking on the occasion was President Gaddafi. Dressed in western costume, the Libyan leader commended his Senegalese counterpart for pushing the agenda for African unity. He also saluted Mr Wade for achieving a lot within a short period.
The 47th independence celebration followed the official swearing-in ceremony of President Wade for a second term of office on Tuesday at Leopold Sedar Senghor Stadium in Dakar.
The 80-year-old President swept the polls on 25 February when he defeated 14 opposition candidates in a first round battle. The race was declared free and fair by international observers. However, Mr Wade’s opponents, who boycotted the Tuesday’s ceremony, said the polls have been rigged.
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