Yesterday, Khady Diène Gaye took office as the new Minister for Youth, Sports and Culture, promising to bring productive energy to the cultural and creative industries in order to create jobs and boost economic growth. She expressed her intention to support cultural enterprises through various financial instruments and to enhance Senegal’s cultural influence through major events such as the upcoming Dakar Biennial, scheduled for May 16 to June 16, 2024. By Ousmane Sow – Khady Diène Gaye steps into her position as minister with a clear commitment and determination to serve the cultural and artistic community with integrity and dedication. She commended her predecessor, Aliou Sow, for his hard work and contribution to the cultural sector and for the smooth organization of the handover ceremony. “I am fully aware of the importance of this role, as well as the challenges of the mission entrusted to me and the trust placed in me by the highest authority in this country,” said Khady Diène Gaye. Hailing from the childhood kingdom of poet-President Léopold Sédar Senghor, Khady Diène Gaye is deeply rooted in the cultural values that shaped her youth. She sees culture as the binding force of Senegalese society, a catalyst for social interaction, and a driver for development. “We must therefore ensure the preservation of our cultural heritage, protect our traditions and arts, and also support and promote our creativity and creative genius. Therefore, I am committed to supporting cultural institutions, promoting cultural diversity, and ensuring access to culture and the opportunities it offers to all segments of our society, especially the youth,” she said. Under the leadership of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, Khady Diène Gaye plans to bring a productive dynamic to the cultural and creative industries to create jobs and stimulate economic growth, particularly for the youth. “In film and audiovisual, visual arts, performing arts, and heritage, our cultural enterprises, with proper support and guidance, can not only offer quality cultural content, but also strengthen our economic fabric and promote our identity and cultural influence,” assured Khady Diène Gaye to her predecessor. As a former inspector of sports, she intends to support cultural enterprises through various financial instruments and enhance Senegal’s cultural influence through major events such as the upcoming Dakar Biennial. “I will also work to strengthen our cultural influence by supporting major events, including the upcoming Dakar Biennial, scheduled for May 16 to June 16, 2024, for which, in collaboration with the State Secretary and stakeholders, I will engage in discussions regarding its organization,” she stated. The new minister also expressed her determination to bring new energy and momentum to the cultural sector under her leadership. “By investing in the creative industries and preserving our cultural heritage, we can create jobs, encourage entrepreneurship, and offer future prospects for the younger generations. I will inclusively support the production chain of our cultural enterprises and accompany the efforts to structure and professionalize the sector,” assured Khady Diène Gaye. She also expressed her intention to explore the opportunities offered by digital technology to enrich the cultural experience. “Moreover, I will explore the possibilities offered by digital technology to enhance our cultural experience. We live in a constantly evolving world and culture plays a crucial role in our ability to adapt and prosper. Together, by preserving our achievements and taking advantage of opportunities offered by exploring new horizons, we can build a dynamic and flourishing cultural future for all,” concluded Khady Diène Gaye. In conclusion, Khady Diène Gaye’s promises and determination to bring new life to the cultural sector through investment, preservation, and digital innovation, bode well for the future of Senegal’s cultural landscape. Her plans to support and promote the country’s cultural institutions, diversity, and access to culture for all segments of society, especially the youth, are all critical steps towards building a brighter future for the next generation. The upcoming Dakar Biennial in 2024 will be an important test to see how well her plans materialize and if they can truly stimulate the growth of the cultural and creative industries in Senegal. Only time will tell, but for now, Khady Diène Gaye’s ambitious goals for the cultural sector are certainly inspiring and worth keeping an eye on
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