Senegal is preparing to open the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games on October 31, becoming the first African country to host an Olympic event. Around 2,700 young athletes are expected to compete in 25 sports, while 10 additional activities will invite local children to take part without entering formal competition. Events will be held in Dakar and the nearby communities of Diamniadio and Saly.

Dakar secured the hosting rights in 2018, but the Games were postponed from 2022 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Organisers used the additional time to restore existing sports sites instead of relying mainly on newly built venues. The International Olympic Committee has also trained more than 400 young Africans in event operations, logistics and venue management, while 31 athletes will serve as mentors to competitors.

Senegal football captain Kalidou Koulibaly, digital creator Khaby Lame and actor Omar Sy are among the event ambassadors. The Games will also include a youth refugee team selected through trials in East Africa, with participants receiving educational and wellbeing support. Organisers hope the competition will create opportunities for young people and leave useful skills and facilities after the closing ceremony.

The event carries particular importance on a continent where young people form a large share of the population. With Senegal’s unemployment rate among people aged 15 to 34 reported at more than 27 percent, many residents are also looking for employment and training benefits. The long-term success of Dakar 2026 will therefore be judged not only by medals, but also by what it provides for local athletes, workers and communities.