Djirèye Clotilde Coly says Senegal is ready for Dakar 2026

Senegal’s preparations for Dakar 2026 are on track, according to Sports Minister Djirèye Clotilde Coly, who says the country is ready to host the first Olympic event on African soil. The Games will also serve as a test of Senegal’s ability to stage a major international sporting competition.

The Youth Olympic Games are scheduled for October 31 to November 13, with about 2,700 athletes expected from around the world. Coly said recently completed sports facilities have put the infrastructure in place. President Bassirou Diomaye Faye is personally involved in the preparations, while Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko is following the work daily alongside the government’s coordination efforts. The minister also highlighted cooperation between the International Olympic Committee, the Dakar 2026 organising committee and international sports federations.

For Senegal, the event is intended to leave more than competition venues behind. Coly linked the Games to investment in high-level sports infrastructure, the expansion of the sports economy and greater opportunities for youth empowerment and leadership. She said the country wants to demonstrate that Africa can organise events of this scale.

A public-private partnership is being considered for the maintenance, operation and development of the facilities after the Games. The National Office for Sports Infrastructure Management will oversee the broader plan for their future use.