The 44-year-old took the oath of office in the presence of hundreds of officials and several African heads of state near the capital Dakar.

Bassirou Diomaye Faye, Senegal's youngest president, took office on Tuesday, following a decisive victory in the first round of elections. Just 10 days after his release from prison, he pledged radical reform during his inauguration ceremony.

"Before God and the Senegalese nation, I solemnly swear to faithfully execute the duties of the President of the Republic of Senegal," declared the 44-year-old amidst a gathering of officials and African leaders at an exhibition center in Diamniadio, near Dakar. Faye also committed to upholding the Constitution, defending national integrity, and striving for African unity.

The official transfer of power from outgoing President Macky Sall will occur at the presidential palace in Dakar.

Faye, aged 44, emerged from prison less than two weeks before the March 24 election, alongside the prominent opposition figure and mentor Ousmane Sonko, thanks to a political amnesty declared by outgoing President Macky Sall.

During his campaign, Faye pledged to combat corruption and improve the management of Senegal's natural resources. His win resonated with the frustrations of the youth, who are grappling with widespread unemployment, and critics who perceive France, the former colonial power, as exploiting its ties with Senegal for its own gain.

In his inaugural address as president-elect, Faye reiterated his commitment to fighting corruption and initiating economic reforms.