As part of the preparations for the celebration of Independence Day on April 4, 2026, the commander of military zone No. 3 in Kaolack faced the press to give an update on the upcoming festivities in the regions of Kaolack, Kaffrine and Fatick.

Colonel Massamba Thiam informed that this year's theme is: "Defense and security forces, partners of the Youth Olympic Games, Dakar 2026".

During a press briefing held at military zone No. 3 in Kaolack, Colonel Massamba Thiam, commander of military zone No. 3, in charge of the festivities in the regions of Kaolack Kaffrine and Fatick, explained that there will be a civil, military and paramilitary parade.

The number of members of the Defense and Security Forces participating in the parade will be 948 in Kaolack, 430 in Kaffrine, and 633 in Fatick. As for the majorettes, two groups will march in Kaolack, one in Kaffrine, and one in Fatick. Schools will participate, with 19 marching in Kaolack, 23 in Kaffrine, and 32 in Fatick.

Youth groups will be involved, as well as veterans and municipalities. Moto Jakarta drivers will also participate, with all necessary safety measures in place, including wearing vests and helmets.

In total, an average of 1,959 civilians and military personnel will participate in the parade in Kaolack. In Kaffrine, there will be 1,438, and in Fatick, 1,689.

Colonel Thiam announced that this year, in Kaolack, the parade which used to take place on El Hadji Ibrahima Niasse Avenue will be relocated to the intersection between El Hadji Ibrahima Niasse Avenue and National Route 1. A 400-seat grandstand will be set up at the roundabout in the heart of Kaolack.