Seven Gabonese athletes have been officially presented in Libreville as they prepare to compete in the 2026 Youth Olympic Games (JOJ) in Dakar, Senegal. The ceremony, organized by the French Embassy in Gabon in partnership with the Gabonese National Olympic Committee (CNOG), took place at the French Institute in Gabon. The athletes will compete in five disciplines, representing Gabon on the international stage from October 31 to November 13.
The Gabonese delegation consists of athletes competing in taekwondo, swimming, wushu, athletics, and judo. Joinika Kowengue and Marvin Junior Boulouchi will represent Gabon in taekwondo, while Majd Janet and Axelle Moulenda will compete in swimming. Tracy Assengone Allogo will participate in wushu, Séréna G. Massala Malonga in athletics, and Ghislain Ndong in judo. The ceremony provided an opportunity to showcase the young athletes who will be defending Gabon's colors during the international competition.
The French Ambassador to Gabon, Fabrice Mauriès, highlighted the partnership between the French diplomatic representation and the CNOG. This collaboration contributes to the support of the Gabonese sports movement. The partnership aims to promote the development of sports in Gabon and provide opportunities for young athletes to compete at the international level.
The President of the CNOG, General Sylvain Florient Pangou-Mbembo, emphasized the significance of the participation of young Gabonese athletes in the 2026 Youth Olympic Games. He noted that the athletes will not only represent their disciplines or federations but also the values and aspirations of the entire nation. The President stressed the importance of partnerships in achieving this ambition.
General Pangou-Mbembo also advised the young athletes to make the most of this experience by demonstrating discipline, determination, and respect throughout the competition. He encouraged them to be disciplined in their efforts, exemplary in their behavior, and determined in their competition. The athletes were also reminded to respect their opponents, honor their coaches, and give their best under all circumstances.
The 2026 Youth Olympic Games will take place in Dakar, Senegal, from October 31 to November 13. The games provide a platform for young athletes from around the world to compete and promote the values of Olympism. The Gabonese athletes will have the opportunity to compete against their peers from other countries and gain valuable experience.
The presentation ceremony marked an important milestone for the Gabonese athletes as they prepare to represent their country on the international stage. With the support of the French Embassy and the CNOG, the athletes are expected to make a positive impact at the 2026 Youth Olympic Games. The participation of Gabonese athletes in the games is a testament to the country's commitment to promoting sports development and providing opportunities for young athletes to excel.
Key points
- Seven Gabonese athletes to compete in five disciplines at 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar
- Athletes advised to demonstrate discipline, determination, and respect throughout the competition
- Partnership between French Embassy and CNOG supports Gabonese sports movement
