On November 3, 2026, Senegal's Minister of Youth and Sports, Djireye Clotilde Coly, visited the competition sites of the Youth Olympic Games (JOJ) Dakar 2026 in Diamniadio. She was accompanied by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and praised the quality of the sports performances by young athletes. The minister highlighted the potential of Senegalese youth and the need to consolidate their support.
The first days of JOJ Dakar 2026 have brought satisfaction to Senegal, with promising performances, new disciplines, and initial distinctions. Minister Coly expressed her satisfaction with the bronze medal won by Mactar Diop, the country's first medal. She congratulated him and other national representatives, emphasizing the importance of valuing not only results but also commitment, merit, and efforts made by young athletes.
The minister attended various competitions, including badminton and wushu, appreciating the technical quality and intensity of the matches. She noted that these competitions offer an exceptional opportunity to showcase young talent and inspire new sports vocations. Coly also acknowledged the contrast in performances across different disciplines, with some, like football and beach-volley, showing encouraging progress, while others, like baseball five, face more experienced opponents.
Minister Coly stressed the importance of developing sports practice among children and in schools, making them spaces for detecting and nurturing future champions. She emphasized the need for sustainable investment in young athletes' training, enabling them to acquire the necessary technical, physical, and tactical skills for high-level competition. This approach should also support emerging disciplines like baseball five.
The minister encouraged Senegalese families to participate in the event, inviting them to attend competitions and make JOJ Dakar 2026 a popular and enjoyable experience. She believes that the presence of spectators can inspire young athletes and transmit the passion for sports. By making these Games a festive and engaging event, Senegal can foster a stronger connection with its youth.
Coly sees JOJ Dakar 2026 as a strategic opportunity to rethink and strengthen Senegal's national sports promotion policy. The experience and lessons learned from the country's participation will help identify needs in coaching, preparation, and training for young talents. This, in turn, will enable the development of a more effective and sustainable sports strategy.
As the competition continues, Minister Coly's focus remains on the long-term development of Senegalese sports. She aims to create a competitive and sustainable sports future, leveraging the momentum of JOJ Dakar 2026. With a strong emphasis on youth development and investment in sports infrastructure, Senegal is poised to build on the successes of its young athletes.
Key points
- Minister Djireye Clotilde Coly emphasizes the need for sustainable investment in young athletes' training to develop Senegalese sports.
