Senegal’s new president Macky Sall has given Youssou N’dour a post in his government.

The internationally-renowned singer – who was banned from running for president in the recent election – becomes culture and tourism minister.

A former prime minister, Sall beat the longstanding incumbent Abdoulaye Wade in a run-off vote to become Senegal’s first new president in 12 years.

The prime minister is Abdoul Mbaye, a former banker with no party affiliation.

The new government was presented amid celebrations for the West African country’s national day.

The recent election was marked by tension and violence after the octogenarian President Wade insisted on running for a third term. However calm returned after he accepted defeat.

Senegal’s new leader has pledged to limit the presidency to two terms in office.