Kenya's Aaliya Makena is set to make history at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, carrying the country's fencing hopes in the women's individual épée event. Makena, just 15 years old, began training in fencing at school in Grade Nine under coach Georgina Kana. Her rapid rise through the ranks has earned her a spot at her biggest international assignment yet. The Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games will take place from October 31 to November 13.
Makena's breakthrough in fencing came when she received a letter from the federation while still relatively new to the sport. Her coach asked her to take it home to her mother, where they discovered that she had been selected to represent Kenya at the African Games. This opportunity gave her an early taste of international competition, which has helped shape her progression. She went on to feature at the African Championships.
Makena will compete in the women's individual épée at Dakar, with the event scheduled for November 10 at the Dakar Expo Centre in Diamniadio. The competition will begin with the pool round before progressing to the knockout stages. She is targeting a strong performance while gaining valuable experience on the international stage. Makena's goal is to make a mark and fly her country's flag high.
The teenager is also keen to enjoy the experience and embrace the challenge. "My expectation is to have fun and be good while at it," she added. Makena's emergence comes two years after Alexandra Ndolo became Kenya's first Olympic fencer at the Paris 2024 Games. Ndolo competed in the women's épée before losing 13-12 to Ukraine's Olena Kryvytska in the round of 32.
Makena's progression represents another step for a discipline that is still developing in Kenya, particularly through school and youth programmes. The Dakar Youth Olympic Games will be the first Olympic event staged on African soil. Kenya is sending a 54-athlete contingent competing in 13 disciplines. Dakar is an opportunity to gain experience while contributing to Kenya's growing presence in fencing.
Makena's coach, Georgina Kana, played a significant role in her early development. Kana introduced Makena to fencing, and the young athlete has since made significant progress. Makena's experience at the African Games and Championships has prepared her for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games.
As Makena prepares to take the stage, she remains focused on her goals. With her sights set on a strong performance, she aims to make a lasting impression. Key points include:
Key points
- Makena will be Kenya's youngest competitor at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games.
- The event will take place from October 31 to November 13.
- Makena's participation marks another milestone for Kenya's growing presence in fencing.
