The Minister of Land and Air Transport, Yankhoba Diémé, chaired the inaugural meeting of the Transport and Mobility Steering Committee this week, marking the official launch of the operational plan for Senegal’s historic hosting of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games (YOG).
For the first time in Africa’s sporting history, Senegal is set to welcome nearly 2,700 athletes from 206 National Olympic Committees, along with thousands of officials, volunteers, and spectators. The logistical challenge demands a well-structured mobility framework, with Dakar, Diamniadio, and Saly/Mbour designated as the event’s core hubs.
The organizational structure revolves around three key entities: the Steering Committee (COPIL), led by Minister Diémé; the Technical Committee for Mobility 2026, coordinated by the Special Transport Executive Council (CETUD); and the AIBD Operations Committee, tasked with managing flows at the Blaise Diagne International Airport.
Minister Diémé emphasized that mobility is a cornerstone of the Games’ success, particularly in ensuring seamless logistics and security. Rail transport will play a pivotal role in connecting Dakar, Diamniadio, the AIBD, and Thiès, enabling swift and efficient movement.
With preparations now entering an accelerated execution phase, authorities are planning full-scale simulations to evaluate the transport and security infrastructure. The goal is twofold: to deliver a flawless event showcasing Senegalese expertise and to establish a lasting legacy in transport governance for future generations.
