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18 April, 2024
For the first time, Africa is set to host the Youth Olympic Games, with Senegal's capital, Dakar, announced as the venue for the 2026 event. The games are scheduled from October 31 to November 13, 2026, and will see the world's brightest young talents compete across 35 sports over a fortnight.
Originally slated for 2022, the Dakar en Jeux festival, which spans the cities of Dakar, Diamniadio, and Saly, has morphed into an annual festivity celebrating sports and culture. This event aims to build momentum toward the 2026 games while fostering youth participation in sports across the region.
International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach has thrown his weight behind Senegal's capabilities to host the games, emphasizing Africa's rich sporting culture and youthful demographic. &ldquo;With a young population and a passion for sport, it is time for Africa, it is time for Senegal,&rdquo; Bach stated in an Olympics report. During a 2022 visit to Senegal, he expressed his enthusiasm for the continent's Olympic debut. "We cannot wait for the moment to be back here and to enjoy this first Olympic event on African soil, an event for Africa, with Africa, that will welcome the youth of the world in Senegal,&rdquo; said Bach.
This momentous occasion has sparked excitement among sports commentators throughout Africa, with Senegal's Rufai Shuaib remarking, &ldquo;The hosting of the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar represents a major milestone in showcasing the immense talent and potential of our young athletes on a global platform.&rdquo;

Senegal is poised to make history as it prepares to host Africa's first Olympic event, signaling a significant milestone for the continent's sports scene and showcasing Senegal's growing prominence as a sporting destination.

Senegal Set to Host Africa's First Olympic Event