One Year to Dakar 2026: ITTF Development Programmes Build Momentum Across Africa

As Dakar marks exactly one year until it becomes the first African city to host the Youth Olympic Games, the ITTF's development work continues to build momentum across the continent. Behind the scenes, coaches and young athletes are preparing for this landmark event that will also make history as the first Youth Olympic Games under IOC President Kirsty Coventry's leadership.

In communities across Africa, table tennis is more than just a sport – it's a bridge connecting cultures and unlocking potential. The ITTF's grassroots programmes have been working tirelessly to create opportunities where young people can discover their talents while building valuable life skills.

"What we're seeing is incredible growth," says an ITTF development coordinator working with local coaches. "Children who had never held a paddle before are now competing regionally, and the excitement is contagious."

The preparations for Dakar 2026 have already begun to transform sports infrastructure in several African nations, with new training centers and equipment donations reaching communities that previously had limited access to competitive sports. Local coaches are receiving specialized training to ensure the impact continues long after the games conclude.

As the countdown begins, African athletes are preparing to make history on home soil. The ITTF's commitment extends beyond the games themselves, aiming to create a sustainable legacy that will nurture generations of athletes across the continent.

Read the original article on ITTF's website: ITTF