The President of Senegal's National Olympic and Sports Committee (CNOSS), Mamadou Diagna Ndiaye, has called for the 2026 Dakar Youth Olympic Games (JOJ) to leave a lasting legacy for Africa and future generations. Speaking at the official opening ceremony, Ndiaye emphasized that the continent is now at the heart of Olympic history. He welcomed athletes and delegations from around the world, highlighting the significance of the event.
Ndiaye reflected on the journey that led to the organization of the Games, from Dakar's bid selection in Buenos Aires in 2018 to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. He praised the Senegalese government's continuity, the organizing committee's commitment, and the involvement of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye in the final months of preparation. The CNOSS President also honored Senegalese women, represented by the "100 linguères des temps modernes" who carried the Olympic flame.
The Olympic flame has traveled through Senegal's 14 regions, uniting champions and ordinary people, young and old, around the symbol. Ndiaye saluted Kirsty Coventry, the first female and African President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), noting that her presence adds to the event's symbolic significance for the continent. He invited young athletes to make the 15-day competition a moment of fraternity, respect, and rapprochement between nations.
Ndiaye emphasized the importance of Senegalese cultural values, including "Jom" (dignity), "Kersa" (respect), and "Ngor" (self-overcoming). He stressed the need to utilize the infrastructures built for the Games for the benefit of the population, particularly students and local residents, after the competitions. The CNOSS President aims to create a useful, sober, and sustainable event that leaves a lasting legacy.
Ndiaye expressed his ambition to make Dakar 2026 a reference point in Olympic history, ensuring that the event is not just a one-time occurrence but a lasting impact. He called on young people to preserve the Olympic spirit and make it shine in their respective countries. The CNOSS President reiterated Senegal's commitment to hosting safe, joyful, and unforgettable Games.
The event marks a historic milestone for Africa, with the Olympic flame burning on the continent for the first time. Ndiaye's vision for Dakar 2026 is to create a message of hope for Africa and the global youth, encouraging them to take charge of their future. He concluded by launching a rallying cry: "Vive la jeunesse, vive le Sénégal, vive l’Afrique, vive l’Olympisme!"
As the Games commence, athletes and delegations from around the world are converging on Dakar, ready to participate in the competitions. With a focus on unity, respect, and sustainability, Dakar 2026 aims to set a new standard for future Olympic events. The Senegalese government's commitment to hosting a successful event is evident, with President Bassirou Diomaye Faye actively involved in the preparations.
Key points
- Senegal aims to make a lasting impact with the 2026 Dakar Youth Olympic Games.
- The event marks a historic milestone for Africa, with the Olympic flame burning on the continent for the first time.
- The CNOSS President emphasizes the importance of leaving a sustainable legacy for future generations.
