How the Senegalese President, Bassirou Diomaye FAYE, is preparing for the Youth Olympic Games Dakar 2026 with focus on collaboration, financial management and security. The YOG will take place from 31 October to 13 November 2026 in Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly.
Senegalese President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, outlined Senegal’s preparations for the Youth Olympic Games (YOG) Dakar 2026 during the Sport for Sustainable Development Summit in Paris, highlighting three focus areas for the organisation of this major event.
The President pointed out that preparations for the YOG are based on close collaboration between the State, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the National Organising Committee, under the dynamic leadership of the NOC President, Mamadou Diagna NDIAYE.
He also stressed the importance of the rigorous management of public funds, giving priority to renovating and improving existing infrastructure rather than building new ones. He also underscored the need for closer monitoring of security, accommodation, transport, catering and health related aspects.
The President expressed his gratitude to the IOC and all the partners assisting Senegal ahead of this first edition of the YOG in Africa. The event, to be held from 31 October to 13 November 2026, will bring together the cream of the’ world’s young athletes and will take place in Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly.
The YOGOC unveiled its official motto for the event: “Africa welcomes, Dakar celebrates,” at the 142nd IOC Session.
