The Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA), in partnership with Olympic Solidarity, has reaffirmed its dedication to the development of sports in Africa with the launch of the Youth Olympic Games (YOG) Dakar 2026 Training Academy.
This unprecedented initiative marks a historic milestone in Africa’s Olympic history, providing young African professionals with a rare and invaluable opportunity to contribute to the organisation of the first-ever Olympic event on African soil.
The Training Academy will equip participants from all 54 African National Olympic Committees (NOCs) with vital skills in international sports event management. After a two-week training in Dakar, they will join the YOG Organizing Committee, playing an active role in the preparation and delivery of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games.
ANOCA President Mustapha Berraf emphasized the academy’s long-term impact on African sport: “This initiative is a crucial investment in our future leaders, ensuring that Africa’s young professionals are ready to lead world-class sports events.”
The programme is jointly funded by Olympic Solidarity, covering travel and accommodation expenses for participants.
The Dakar 2026 YOG, held from 31 October to 13 November, will be a historic event, bringing together the world’s top young athletes. ANOCA and Olympic Solidarity aim to ensure that the legacy of Dakar 2026 extends beyond the Games themselves, shaping the future of African sports management for generations.
ANOCA urges all African NOCs to nominate promising young professionals for this transformative opportunity. Application details will be announced soon.
