Maldives Takes Part in Historic Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games Opening Ceremony
Maldives joined nations from around the world at the Opening Ceremony of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, held on 31 October 2026 at the Abdoulaye Wade Stadium in Diamniadio, Senegal. The occasion marked a historic milestone as the first Olympic sporting event to be held on the African continent.
Team Maldives flag bearers Amna Thazkiyah Mirsaad and Looth Mohamed Hussain proudly carried the Maldivian flag onto the Olympic stage, representing the nation at a celebration of youth, friendship and sporting excellence.
Maldives is represented exclusively in swimming at these Games, with both flag bearers competing. Amna is entered in the women’s 50m freestyle, 50m backstroke and 50m butterfly, while Looth is entered in the men’s 50m, 100m and 200m breaststroke.
The Opening Ceremony celebrated Senegalese hospitality and Africa’s rich cultural heritage through music, dance and artistic performances. Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye officially declared the Games open, with the lighting of the Youth Olympic cauldron marking the beginning of the sporting celebrations.
Taking place from 31 October to 13 November 2026, the Dakar Youth Olympic Games provide young athletes with opportunities to compete internationally, experience different cultures and build friendships through sport. Team Maldives’ participation offers its young swimmers a valuable opportunity to develop and represent their country within the Olympic Movement.
