Mbour today marked the start of the national awareness caravan for the Youth Olympic Games (YOG) 2026 volunteer program. The initiative, led by the Human Resources Department of the organizing committee, aims to inform and mobilize Senegalese youth around this international sporting event.

Ibrahima Goudiaby, project manager for the human resources department of the Youth Olympic Games organizing committee, explains: "This caravan is not just for the YOG, but specifically dedicated to volunteering. We are here to explain to young people how they can register and participate in the organization of these Games. Registration is open from today on our platform and directly on the caravan truck which is travelling around the country."

After Mbour, the caravan will travel to Fatick, Kaolack, Kaffrine, and Tambacounda. This mobile unit is the spearhead of the operation, allowing local youth to get information and register on site.

The director of the Mbour Cdeps emphasized the importance of this mobilization: "The goal is to increase the number of applications so that as many young people as possible can participate in organizing the first Olympic event on African soil. It is an exceptional opportunity to acquire skills and plan for international careers."

The national volunteer program plans to host 6,000 young people, 3,000 of whom have already been identified through the National Civic Service and the municipalities of the host cities, including Mbour, Saly, Diamniadio, and Dakar. The remaining 3,000 places are open to all national and international applications.

"For the participation criteria, you must be at least 18 years old, possess communication skills, and have experience in organizing sporting events is an advantage," explains Mr. Goudiaby.

Through this program, the organizing committee wishes to offer young Senegalese people an opportunity to engage in sport and the logistics of international events, while strengthening their personal and professional skills.