Uganda's Young Athletes Gear Up for Historic Youth Olympic Games in Dakar

Africa has officially stepped into the Olympic spotlight as the 2026 Youth Olympic Games get underway at the Abdoulaye Wade Stadium in Senegal. For Uganda’s contingent of 25 rising stars, the historic continental event has already brought a mix of intense athletic action and swift adjustments to the local climate.

While the grand opening ceremony marks the official start for many nations, several Ugandan competitors have gone straight to work. Rower Marcel Andrew Otim is tackling the coastal beach sprint time trials at Saly Beach West, roughly 80 kilometers south of Dakar. Traveling in from the cooler autumn weather of the United States, the 17-year-old athlete faced an immediate physical adjustment to the blazing 90-degree heat.

Alongside Otim, table tennis prodigy Joseph Ssebatindira has commenced his campaign at the Dakar Expo Center in Diamniadio. At just 11 years old, the former world number one in the under-11 category is partnering with 16-year-old Jemimah Nakawala for the mixed doubles, bringing fresh momentum after defending his ITTF World Hopes title in Sheffield.

Ugandan teams in rugby sevens, badminton, and swimming have also arrived at the athletes’ village, which sits just a stone’s throw from the main stadium. Because many of these sports begin immediately following the opening events, athletes are planning early nights to ensure they stay well-rested for rigorous competition schedules spanning rowing, table tennis, rugby sevens, badminton, swimming, athletics, and road cycling.

Historically, the Youth Olympic Games have served as a critical launchpad for Ugandan sports talent. Previous medalists like Sarah Chelangat and Oscar Chelimo used the youth platform to springboard into senior global championships and Olympic success. For athletes like Otim, Dakar 2026 represents a vital stepping stone toward future Olympic dreams.

Read more about the Ugandan team’s campaign in Senegal at the Daily Monitor.