"VAN" (Sports Desk - 01.11.2026) :: For years, we have talked about this moment. The first Olympic sporting event on African soil. And now – here we are!
This historic moment is for Senegal and for Africa. And for our entire Olympic Movement.
And to all our amazing young athletes – are you ready for this?
You are going to have the time of your lives and I am so excited for you!
And Senegal – what an incredible welcome you have given our athletes!
Thank you, Your Excellency, for welcoming the world.
I know how much heart, how much passion, how much hard work has gone into making this moment possible.
To the Government of Senegal, to the Organising Committee and my dear friend – and above all, to the people of Senegal: Thank you very much!
Thank you also to our Worldwide Olympic Partners and Media Rights-Holders, who are helping us share the spirit of these Youth Olympic Games around the world.
And of course: a big shout-out to our amazing volunteers - let’s hear it for the volunteers!
What makes these Games even more special is that young people have been at the heart of everything.
Not just young athletes, but the young people of Senegal who have helped bring these Games to life.
With your ideas. Your creativity. Your energy.
These really are Games for the youth, by the youth!
You have opened your arms and hearts to the world.
This is the spirit of teranga.
To everyone joining us from around the world: I hope you enjoy every moment here in Senegal.
The warmth of the Senegalese people. The culture. The creativity.
I think you're in for something very special!
This is the Africa that I am so proud and so excited for the world to experience.
It makes me incredibly proud to be standing here tonight.
A proud Zimbabwean.
And proud to be an African woman.
And so proud that our continent is welcoming the Olympic Movement for the very first time.
And now, to our amazing young athletes!
Tonight is YOUR night!
Just take a moment.
Look around you.
Take it all in.
You have worked very hard to get here.
The early mornings.
The long hours of training.
And all the people who have helped you along the way.
And I know how you're feeling right now.
Excited? A little nervous? Maybe a lot nervous?
I remember that feeling!
Sport opened so many doors in my life.
It gave me the confidence to believe in myself and to dream big.
And that is what I wish for every single one of you during these Games.
I hope these Games give you confidence to believe in yourselves.
To dream big. And to do things you never thought possible.
So give it everything you've got.
Be brave. Make new friends. Get to know people from different countries.
Cheer each other on.
And have fun!
To everybody watching and competing, Let’s make every moment count!
And now: Dakar – let's celebrate!
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