Bassirou Diomaye Faye urges youth to lead in AI and responsible social media use

Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has called for more responsible use of social media and a proactive approach to artificial intelligence. Speaking at the installation of the Senegal Youth Advisory Council (Ccjs), which consists of 1,227 members, Faye criticized the prevalence of lies and insults on digital platforms. He emphasized that while debate and contradiction are welcome, online behavior should not undermine collective values or social cohesion.

Regarding technology, the President urged young people to move beyond being mere consumers of artificial intelligence. He expressed a desire to see local actors develop AI tools that incorporate Senegalese languages and respect national values, rather than relying solely on foreign-designed machines.

The President's remarks drew a political response from Ngagne Demba Touré, former director general of the Société des Mines du Sénégal, who suggested that the administration's concerns regarding social media may stem from the platforms serving as a venue for popular discontent.