The 2026 Youth Olympics, set to take place in Dakar, Senegal, will feature six sports disciplines at the Saly Beach Ouest site. As part of the event's preparations, the Société d'aménagement et de promotion des côtes et zones touristiques du Sénégal (SAPCO) has been working closely with the organizing committee. According to SAPCO's Director General, Babacar Mbengue, the organization has been involved in the preparation process since the country's bid was submitted.
SAPCO's role in the event's organization is multifaceted, encompassing site preparation, development, and valorization. The organization has been responsible for liberating the site, cleaning and tamisage of the sand, and coordinating with partners to improve the environment. Mbengue emphasized that SAPCO's contribution goes beyond mere site preparation, aiming to make the event a catalyst for transformation in Saly and the Petite-Côte region.
The partnership between SAPCO and the Comité d'organisation des Jeux olympiques de la jeunesse (COJOJ) is built on complementarity and consultation. Each party plays to its strengths, with SAPCO providing expertise in site management and the COJOJ handling operational preparations. The site was officially handed over to the COJOJ on August 10, allowing for the installation of sports infrastructure.
SAPCO's involvement in the event began with the preparation of Senegal's bid and has continued through various phases, including site mobilization and preparation. The organization has worked closely with the COJOJ, the Mairie de Saly, and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth handover. This collaboration demonstrates the importance of shared vision and coordination in achieving concrete results.
With the site handed over to the COJOJ, SAPCO is now focused on providing support during the event's run. Mbengue expressed confidence in the preparations, citing significant progress and strong mobilization of teams. However, he also emphasized the need for vigilance and permanent coordination, given the event's magnitude.
SAPCO has undertaken significant work on the Saly Beach Ouest site to meet international sports federation requirements. The organization has carried out extensive cleaning and tamisage of the sand, as well as liberating the site. These operations are crucial for disciplines practiced on the sand, such as beach volleyball.
The Youth Olympics are expected to bring a new level of ambition to Saly and the Petite-Côte region. Mbengue believes that the event will serve as a starting point for a new era of development, with SAPCO playing a key role in this process. The organization aims to contribute to the valorization and integration of tourist spaces into broader development dynamics.
Key points
- SAPCO has played a crucial role in preparing the Saly Beach Ouest site for the 2026 Youth Olympics.
- The organization has worked closely with the COJOJ and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth handover.
- The event is expected to bring significant benefits to Saly and the Petite-Côte region, with SAPCO contributing to its success.
