Team PNG departs for historic Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games

Swimmer Roxanne Kirarock, 15, and sprinter Kabake Lansana, 17, departed on 28 October to represent Papua New Guinea at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Senegal.

The Games run from 31 October to 13 November 2026 and mark the first Olympic sporting event held in Africa. The two athletes will compete in swimming and athletics as part of a five-member Team PNG delegation.

Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) President Emma Waiwai, OL, encouraged the athletes to approach the occasion with confidence and enjoyment.

“Love your sport, play it with joy, and let the nerves turn into energy,” she said.

Leading the delegation as Chef de Mission is Dame Iammo Gapi Launa, DBE, BEM, OLY, who was the first female Olympian for Papua New Guinea.

“I am honored to lead our young team to the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar. I could not be prouder to guide this team,” Dame Iammo said.

The Games will give the athletes opportunities to gain international competition experience, build friendships, and experience different cultures.

PNGOC sees Dakar as an opportunity to support the athletes’ continued development and build experience for future international competition, including the Pacific Games, Commonwealth Games, and Olympic Games.

With the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games taking place in the region, Dakar provides valuable

experience on a longer sporting journey.

The PNGOC and Team PNG wish Roxanne, Kabake, and the delegation success and safe travels to Dakar.