Team PNG departs for historic Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic games

Papua New Guinea’s emerging swimmer Roxanne Kirarock, 15, and sprinter Kabake Lansana, 17, departed Port Moresby yesterday to represent the country at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Senegal.

The Games scheduled to run from this Saturday through to November 13 also marks the first Olympic Sporting event to be held in Africa.

Kirarock and Lansana will compete in swimming and athletics respectively as part of a five-member Team PNG delegation.

PNG Olympic Committee President Emma Waiwai encouraged the athletes to approach the occasion with confidence and enjoyment prior to their departure.

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

The delegation was led by Chef de Mission and PNG first female Olympian Dame Iammo Gapi Launa.

 “I am honoured 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.

PNGOC and Team PNG wishes Roxanne, Kabake and the delegation success and safe travels.