Preparing transport infrastructure for Dakar 2026 youth olympic games

The Minister of Terrestrial and Air Transport, Yankhoba Diémé, took the helm of the first steering committee meeting for Transport and Mobility, signaling the official launch of the operational plan for this landmark event.

The Sénégal is set to make history as the first African nation to host the Youth Olympic Games (YOG) Dakar 2026, welcoming nearly 2,700 athletes from 206 National Olympic Committees, along with thousands of officials, volunteers, and spectators. To meet the logistical challenge, authorities have established a structured framework spanning three key hubs: Dakar, Diamniadio, and Saly/Mbour.

The organizational backbone includes three pillars: the Steering Committee (COPIL), led by Minister Diémé, the Technical Committee for Mobility, coordinated by the CETUD, and the AIBD Operations Committee, tasked with managing flows at the Blaise Diagne International Airport.

Transport efficiency is a cornerstone of the success of the Games, particularly for logistics and security. Rail transport will play a vital role in swiftly connecting Dakar, Diamniadio, the AIBD, and Thiès. Authorities are now fast-tracking implementation with full-scale simulations to evaluate the transport and security framework’s effectiveness before the event.

The goal is clear: to position the YOG Dakar 2026 as a showcase of Sénégal’s expertise while leaving a lasting legacy in transport governance across the nation.