Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games Preparations Gain Momentum
As the Youth Olympic Games (YOG) approach, preparations for Dakar 2026 are accelerating across Senegal, according to the latest report presented at the 145th Session of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The Dakar 2026 Organizing Committee has entered the delivery phase, with work on sites and operational readiness progressing at the start of this Olympic year. Preparations are based on strong national coordination, growing public mobilization, and a focus on legacy for young people. Upcoming milestones include the Chef de Mission seminar in April and the arrival of the Olympic flame on the African continent in September.
Progress and Milestones
The report, presented by Mamadou Diagna Ndiaye, President of the Dakar 2026 Organizing Committee, and Ibrahima Wade, General Coordinator, highlights the transition from the planning phase to the delivery phase, with expected acceleration of progress in governance, sites, and operations. Humphrey Kayange, President of the Coordination Commission, also addressed the Session, emphasizing the significant progress made and the undeniable momentum generated by Dakar 2026, while reminding that commission members remain aware of priorities and how they will be controlled and addressed.
Delivery and Operational Readiness
Delivery and operational readiness are progressing on all sites, with tangible progress made on ongoing construction projects and operational tests already conducted on several sites. Renovations have been designed to facilitate long-term access for young athletes, while the Youth Olympic Village will be transformed into student housing. International Sports Federations are actively contributing to the delivery process by regularly visiting sites and participating in webinars on specific topics. The Chef de Mission seminar in April will be a major operational milestone.
National Coordination and Public Mobilization
Preparations are accompanied by strengthened national coordination, with Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye attending celebrations marking the last year before the Games and remaining closely associated with preparations. The Dakar 2026 Organizing Committee is multiplying exchanges with the highest authorities. "We are now in the year of the Games. Today, 270 days separate us from the opening ceremony," said Mamadou Diagna Ndiaye, who also reminded IOC members that preparations are based on a rigorous governance framework and close monitoring with the IOC and event delivery partners.
Celebrations and Initiatives
Public mobilization continues, with important milestones such as celebrations organized to mark one year before the YOG, including the fourth edition of the Dakar in Games Festival, which featured an international futsal competition. The festival also played a key role in international mobilization, allowing representatives from 42 National Olympic Committees (NOCs) from five continents to participate in open days. In the heart of the capital, the OMEGA countdown clock for Dakar 2026 reminds everyone daily of the upcoming event.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy
The Dakar 2026 YOG aim to leave a lasting legacy for African youth. Through the Dakar 2026 Training Academy, nearly 200 of the 400 available positions within the Organizing Committee have been filled, with participants from 25 African NOCs. This desire to leave a lasting impact is complemented by the Dakar 2026 volunteer program, Jambaar26, launched in December to mobilize 6,000 volunteers across Senegal.
Conclusion
Humphrey Kayange, President of the Coordination Commission, concluded: "Beyond sports facilities and new housing, Dakar 2026 will create a formidable pool of young talent across Africa." The upcoming program includes the arrival of the Youth Olympic flame in September, which will be accompanied by a tour of Senegal's 14 regions and celebrations across the continent, uniting communities and bringing African countries together around the flame, with the support of Olympic Solidarity. The Dakar 2026 YOG will take place from October 31 to November 13, 2026, and will bring together 2,700 young athletes aged 17 and under. The sites will be divided into three zones: Dakar, Diamniadio, and Saly.
