Develop and internationalize the city's major cultural events

Saint-Louis, a UNESCO World Heritage city, is the cultural capital of northern Senegal. Two flagship events punctuate its calendar: the International Jazz Festival, created in 1992, and the Fanal, a nocturnal parade of giant lanterns relaunched in the late 1990s, held every December. The 34th edition of the jazz festival took place from May 13 to 17, 2026, featuring Côte d'Ivoire as the guest of honor, an international craft and trade fair, and a historical link with New Orleans. Over 250 artists have been welcomed throughout the editions, and the 35th edition, themed "Return to Africa," is announced for May 4 to 8, 2027. The Fanal features several-meter-high lanterns representing the city's monuments parading around Faidherbe Square, accompanied by the songs and dances of the signares. Its organization is fragile: the 2015 edition could not take place due to lack of resources. Traditional regattas and the island's architectural heritage complement this cultural offering. These events support crafts, hospitality, and catering, but they require stable funding, enhanced international promotion, and better structuring. This mission mobilizes the diaspora to sponsor, promote these events internationally, professionalize their organization, and create partnerships with festivals, twin cities, and cultural institutions.