The 3rd edition of the Day of Mobilization and Advocacy (JoMP) was held in Dakar on October 30, 2026, ahead of the 2026 Youth Olympics. The event aimed to promote the health, voices, and participation of young people in shaping their future. Organized by the World Health Organization (WHO), the JoMP focused on the health of young people in West and Central Africa. The event took place hours before the opening ceremony of the Youth Olympics, the first to be held on the African continent.
According to Prof. Mohamed Janabi, WHO's regional director, the Youth Olympics will celebrate the talent, energy, and determination of young people. The JoMP, however, highlights another crucial aspect: enabling young people to be healthy, have their voices heard, and participate in decision-making. Prof. Janabi emphasized that health should not be an abstract policy for young people but a daily reality in their access to care, environments, and opportunities to stay active and thrive.
The event is part of the preparations for the 2026 Youth Olympics in Dakar, which will feature nearly 7,000 members of delegations. The Senegalese government, in collaboration with international organizations, is working to ensure the success of the event. President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has stated that hosting the Youth Olympics is a national obligation.
The 2026 Youth Olympics are expected to leave a lasting legacy in Dakar, with over 2 billion CFA francs' worth of sports equipment distributed to five communes. Additionally, 30 ambulances have been mobilized, and over 600 healthcare professionals identified to provide medical support during the event.
To facilitate communication and overcome linguistic barriers, an AI-powered conversational agent, Coumba IA, has been created. The agent will help participants and visitors navigate the event. Furthermore, a control center has been set up to provide a consolidated view of road traffic.
The Day of Mobilization and Advocacy is an essential component of the Youth Olympics, highlighting the importance of youth participation and health. The event demonstrates Senegal's commitment to creating an environment that allows young people to thrive.
As the 2026 Youth Olympics approach, Dakar is finalizing preparations to host the event. With a focus on youth health, participation, and legacy, Senegal aims to make the most of this historic moment for Africa.
Key points
- The 2026 Youth Olympics will be the first to be held on the African continent, with Dakar hosting nearly 7,000 members of delegations.
- The event aims to promote youth health, participation, and voices in shaping their future.
- The Senegalese government has invested in sports equipment, healthcare, and infrastructure to ensure the success of the event.
