For the first time ever, the Republic of Senegal participated in "Light It Up Blue" (or La Lumière Bleue) in solidarity with countries around the world commemorating World Autism Awareness Day.

 

To mark the day, iconic landmarks around the world such as the Empire State building in the US, Nelson Mandela Bridge in South Africa, Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy, Macao Tower in Hong Kong, Christ the Redeemer in Brazil and the Sydney Opera House in Australia have gone blue in different years. 

 

This year, Senegal's imposing Le Monument de la Renaissance Africaine (African Renaissance Monument), the tallest statue in Africa, joined the list of such notable buildings, illuminated in blue light courtesy of CHIP International, the Administrator of the monument, and other dignitaries.

 

Included in the ceremony marking the day were 150 special needs children from 5 Centres across the country who assembled at the steps of the historic monument. The historic event was covered by various local and national radio and TV stations in Senegal.