Africa is just 100 days away from making Olympic history as Senegal prepares to host the 2026 Youth Olympic Games, the first Olympic event ever held on the continent.
The Games will begin on 31 October in Senegal’s capital, Dakar, with competitions also taking place in Diamniadio and Saly. Around 2,700 young athletes from across the world will compete in 25 sports.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) says the event marks a historic milestone for Africa.
“This is a monumental moment,” IOC official Christophe Dubi said. “Africa has produced many Olympic champions, but this is the first time an event carrying the Olympic rings will be held on the continent.”
Originally scheduled for 2022, the Games were delayed because of the COVID-19 pandemic, giving organisers more time to prepare.
For Senegal, hosting the event is about more than sport. Organisers say it is an opportunity to showcase Africa’s ability to stage a world-class international competition while inspiring young people across the continent.
Senegal has one of Africa’s youngest populations, but many young people face unemployment and limited economic opportunities. Some residents hope the Games will create jobs, boost tourism and leave lasting benefits beyond the competition.
To promote the event globally, Senegal has appointed football captain Kalidou Koulibaly, social media star Khaby Lame, and actor Omar Sy as ambassadors.
The Games will also feature a Youth Refugee Team, giving displaced young athletes the chance to compete on the international stage while receiving education and wellbeing support.
Rather than building many new facilities, organisers have focused on upgrading existing venues to ensure they continue to benefit local communities after the Games.
The IOC says the success of Dakar 2026 will not be measured only by medals, but by the opportunities it creates for future generations of African athletes and sports professionals.
With the countdown underway, Dakar 2026 is expected to become more than a sporting event ,serving as a global celebration of Africa’s youth, culture and growing role in international sport.