Senegal holds massive “10,000 steps” march ahead of Dakar 2026 Youth Olympics

A popular walk called “10 000 steps for the JOJ” took place in Dakar, rallying thousands of citizens between the Monument of the African Renaissance and the Place du Souvenir Africain. The ceremony was led by Bakary Sarr, Senegal’s Minister of Communication and Government spokesperson, who praised the event as a symbol of national unity.

The march, organized as part of the Olympic Week that began on 19 June, brought together government officials, COJOJ members, Olympic representatives, athletes, cultural figures and the public. It marks the final stage of preparations for the Youth Olympic Games, scheduled for 31 October‑13 November 2026, the first Olympic competition to be held on African soil and expected to host thousands of young athletes from five continents.