Sierra Leone’s National Youth Beach Volleyball Team is stepping up preparations for the historic Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, as Africa prepares to host its first-ever Olympic sporting event.

The Games, scheduled for October 31 to November 13, 2026, in Senegal, will bring together more than 2,500 young athletes from around the world, marking a landmark moment for sport on the African continent.

Representing Sierra Leone in beach volleyball will be the promising duo of Alie Kainesie and team captain Sulaiman Bangura, who are determined to make a strong impression on the international stage.

The pair has been engaged in intensive preparations, including demanding double-session training at Bishop House in Freetown, as they work to sharpen their tactical understanding, agility, fitness and mental resilience ahead of the Games.

National Head Coach Ansumana Bangura has praised the athletes for their commitment and dedication throughout the preparation period, describing their work ethic as inspiring despite the challenges surrounding their campaign.

Captain Sulaiman Bangura and Kainesie said they are proud to represent Sierra Leone at such a historic event, stressing that their daily sacrifices are driven by one objective — to raise the national flag high in Dakar and make their country proud.

However, their preparations have been affected by financial and logistical challenges, with limited support reportedly making it difficult for the team to meet some of its preparation needs. The athletes and technical team are therefore appealing to the Volleyball Federation of Sierra Leone, the National Olympic Committee of Sierra Leone and other stakeholders for increased support.

The team is also calling on corporate institutions, sports enthusiasts, Sierra Leoneans at home and in the diaspora to support their campaign as they seek to compete at their best in Dakar.

With the Youth Olympic Games set to provide a major platform for Africa’s young sporting talents, Kainesie and Bangura remain determined to overcome the obstacles and ensure that Sierra Leone’s beach volleyball campaign reflects the country’s resilience, passion and sporting potential.