Senegal was officially confirmed as the host of the 2022 Summer Youth Olympic Games at the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Session on Monday.
The 133rd IOC Session approved Senegal staging the next edition of the Youth Olympic Games by acclamation. The country has thus become the first African host of any Olympic event.
International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach attends the host city signing contract ceremony, following Dakar's naming as 2022 Youth Olympic Games city, during the 133rd IOC Session in Buenos Aires, Argentina, October 8, 2018. /VCG Photo
Four African countries, namely Botswana, Nigeria, Senegal and Tunisia were in the running and, after thorough analysis, the IOC Evaluation Commission and the Executive Board determined that Dakar, Senegal, presented the best value proposition and the greatest opportunities at this moment in time.
Senegal has a population of 15.5 million people, of which 65 percent are under 35 years of age. With more than a million visitors per year, Senegal is one of the most popular destinations in Africa.
"Africa is united behind Senegal to host the Youth Olympic Games 2022. With a young population and a passion for sport, it is time for Africa, it is time for Senegal," said IOC President Thomas Bach.
The 133rd IOC Session in Buenos Aires, October 8, 2018. /VCG Photo
The competitions and activities will be held across three cities, showing the many facets of Senegal: the historic capital of Dakar; the new city of Diamniadio; and the natural beauty of Saly on the coast.
In order to bid for the 2022 Youth Olympics, Senegal invested heavily in the construction of new sporting venues and the renovation of old ones. Transportation is also improving, as efficient airports and railways will be necessary to receive visitors and athletes. High-end hotels are also being built to accommodate future travelers.
Wrestlers perform during the opening ceremony of the National Wrestling Arena in Dakar, Senegal, July 22, 2018. /VCG Photo
Senegalese President Macky Sall, who made the journey to Buenos Aires for the historic IOC decision, said, "Senegal and its young people are proud of the honor you have bestowed upon us, in entrusting the organization of the Youth Olympic Games 2022 to our country.
"In fact, it is the whole of Africa, the birthplace of humankind through its history and the youngest continent through its demographics, which will welcome the young athletes of the world in 2022."
The 2022 Youth Olympics will take place between May and June.