Humphrey Kayange Appointed Chair of the Coordination Commission for Dakar 2026

Dakar – The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has appointed Humphrey Kayange (apo-opa.co/4jRmpwp) as the new Chair of the IOC Coordination Commission (apo-opa.co/3GweJAK) for the upcoming 4th Summer Youth Olympic Games (YOG) in Dakar 2026 (apo-opa.co/3EMbg0o).

Kayange’s selection was made by IOC President Thomas Bach, following a recommendation from President-elect Kirsty Coventry, who stepped down from her position as Chair after her election as IOC President in March.

For over ten years, Kayange represented Kenya in rugby sevens, serving as the team’s captain, achieving victory at the Singapore Sevens in 2016, and competing in the Rio 2016 Olympic Games.

His on-field leadership led to recognition in the World Rugby Sevens Series, culminating in his induction into the World Rugby Hall of Fame in 2023.

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

He enhances his experience with roles on the Executive Committee of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and holds key positions in sports administration, including Chair of the Kenyan NOC Athletes’ Commission and an Executive Board member of both the Kenya Academy of Sports and the Kenya Rugby Union.

As Chair of the Coordination Commission, Kayange will lead initiatives to assist the YOGOC in the planning and execution of YOG Dakar 2026.

Working closely with National Olympic Committees, International Federations, stakeholders in the Olympic Movement, and local authorities, his role will be essential in ensuring the successful development and delivery of all project elements, marking the first Olympic sporting event hosted on the African continent.

Upon his appointment, Kayange stated: “My vision is driven by empowering young athletes.

“I’m honored to serve the Olympic Movement and help provide a platform for young people to strive for excellence.

“Dakar 2026 will bring together young athletes from around the globe, celebrating African innovation and the Olympic spirit.”

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

The YOG Dakar 2026 is set to commence on October 31, lasting for two weeks and featuring some of the world’s top young athletes aged up to 17 years.

The Games will be hosted across three locations: Dakar, Diamniadio, and Saly.