A recent Shuttle Time programme in Senegal has successfully trained 50 participants from the country’s military and police forces, equipping them with the fundamentals of badminton. This initiative, held at the General Idrissa FALL Military Camp in Dakar on 22 and 23 February 2025, was a collaboration between the Senegal Badminton Federation (FESBAD), the military and police forces, and the elite L’Institut National Supérieur de l’Education Populaire et du Sport (I.N.S.E.P.S).
The programme brought together police officers, military personnel, and PE student teachers, aligning with BWF’s Dakar 2026 Legacy Plan. Notably, among the 50 participants trained as certified Shuttle Time Teachers were 20 women from the military, who received gender-specific training. Their dedication and progress were widely praised by the Presidents of other sports federations in Senegal.
This initiative has significantly contributed to the expansion of badminton in Senegal, with the number of trained Shuttle Time teachers now reaching 340. With growing interest and increasing accessibility, badminton is gaining strong momentum in the country. Recent developments, including the successful hosting of the 2024 All Africa Under-19 Championships, highlight the sport’s rapid growth.
Dakar 2026 Legacy Plan: Paving the Way for a Bright Future
BWF launched the Dakar 2026 Legacy Plan in December 2023 as a strategic effort to develop badminton ahead of the Youth Olympic Games (YOG) 2026. The plan focuses on increasing participation, enhancing human capacity by training officials, administrators, teachers, tutors, and event managers, promoting the sport, fostering partnerships, and creating a sustainable player pathway.
To support this vision, BWF provided four competition mats, 30 school kits, and consultancy services to help draft the strategic plan for the Senegalese Badminton Federation from 2024 to 2028. With the YOG marking the first Olympic Games on African soil, this presents a unique opportunity for BWF to drive badminton development not only in Senegal but across the continent.
Interview with President Tony, President of Senegal Badminton Federation
The BCA TV spoke with President Tony in an exclusive interview, the President of the Senegal Badminton Federation, to get his thoughts on the impact of the Shuttle Time programme and the future of badminton in Senegal.
BCA: President Tony, how do you see the impact of the Shuttle Time programme on the development of badminton in Senegal?
President Tony: The Shuttle Time programme has been a game-changer for us. It has allowed us to introduce badminton to a much wider audience, particularly within the military and police forces. By training 50 new Shuttle Time Teachers, including 20 women, we are ensuring that badminton reaches every corner of our society. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and we are seeing a real enthusiasm for the sport.
BCA: How does this initiative align with Senegal’s preparation for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games?
President Tony: The Dakar 2026 Legacy Plan is an essential part of our journey. The support from BWF and BCA, including the training resources and strategic guidance, is helping us lay the foundation for sustainable growth. Our focus is not just on short-term participation but on creating a long-term structure where badminton can thrive in Senegal. Hosting the Youth Olympic Games on African soil is a historic moment, and we are determined to use this platform to elevate the sport to new heights.
BCA: What are the next steps for the Senegal Badminton Federation following this successful Shuttle Time initiative?
President Tony: We aim to continue expanding our training programmes, particularly in schools and community centers. Our goal is to develop a competitive player base and strengthen our infrastructure, ensuring that Senegal becomes a leading force in African badminton. With the momentum gained from Shuttle Time and the Dakar 2026 initiative, I am confident that badminton will continue to flourish in our country.
With Shuttle Time making waves in Senegal, the future looks promising for badminton in the region. The commitment from FESBAD, along with strategic support from BWF and BCA, is paving the way for long-term success, ensuring that badminton remains an integral part of the nation’s sporting landscape.
