Dakar youth join sports walk ahead of Dakar 2026

A youth-focused sports initiative in Dakar has brought together more than 300 participants ahead of the 2026 Youth Olympic Games, linking physical activity with national cohesion and the Sustainable Development Goals. The gathering placed young people at the centre of discussions about Senegal’s development and the role they can play in shaping the country’s future.

Held on Sunday, the event was organised by the United Nations system in Senegal in partnership with the Ministry of Youth and Sports. Named the “Youth and SDGs Journey”, the walking activity was designed to encourage interaction between young people and development partners while raising awareness of the global goals.

The mobilisation also reinforced the broader social purpose attached to sport in Senegal. United Nations representative Arlette Mvondo highlighted youth, sport and cohesion as key drivers of national transformation, while Sports Director General Mama Laye Mbaye said sport should be viewed not only as recreation but also as a tool for education, better health and stronger social ties. He represented Sports Minister Clotilde Djirèye Coly at the event.

The walk formed part of activities linked to Dakar 2026, which will mark the first Olympic rendezvous held on African soil. It therefore connected preparation for the continent’s first Youth Olympic Games with a wider programme of youth participation and civic awareness.