Senegal marks 47th independence
April 6, 2007
afrol News, 4 April - 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.
© afrol News
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