Kayange appointed Chair of Dakar 2026 Youth Olympics

Former Kenya Sevens captain Humphrey Kayange has been appointed as the new chairperson of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Coordination Commission of the Youth Summer Games in Dakar next year.

IOC President Thomas Bach appointed Kayange following a request from President-elect Kirsty Coventry, who stepped down from her position as chair of the commission after her election as IOC President in March. 

As chair of the Coordination Commission, Kayange will lead the efforts to support the Youth Olympic Games in the planning and delivery of the YOG Dakar 2026.

Working in close collaboration with National Olympic Committees, International Federations, Olympic Movement stakeholders and local authorities, his role will be key to ensure that all aspects of the project are developed and executed to deliver the first Olympic sporting event to be hosted on the African continent.

On his appointment as chair, Kayange said: “My vision is driven by empowering young athletes. I’m honoured to serve the Olympic Movement and help provide a platform for young people to pursue excellence. Dakar 2026 will unite young athletes from around the world, celebrating African innovation and the Olympic spirit.”

Kayange will chair the upcoming Coordination Commission meeting in Dakar, Senegal, on May 7 and 8, which will also be attended by the IOC President-elect.

An IOC Member and Athletes’ Commission member since 2021, Kayange has been a member of the Coordination Commission for Dakar 2026 since 2022.

He brings further experience through his role on the Executive Committee of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and leadership positions in sports administration, including chair of the Kenyan NOC Athletes’ Commission, Executive Board member of the Kenya Academy of Sports and Kenya Rugby Union. The games will be held across three host sites (Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly).