Senegal has been named as the first African country to host the Youth Olympic Games.
The West African nation was on Monday named by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as the host country for the 4th Summer Youth Olympic Games in 2022.
The Games will be the seventh overall.
According to reports, Senegal was nominated based on three sites: the capital, Dakar; the new city of Diamniadio; and the seaside resort of Saly.
The bid was tied to the country’s general development strategy, notably the national government’s ‘Emerging Senegal’ plan, which envisions major economic and infrastructure improvements.
There were hints that an African nation will host the Games as the President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Thomas Bach, had declared: “It is time for Africa – the home of many successful and prominent Olympic athletes”.
The German had described Africa as a continent of youth.
“That is why we want to take the Youth Olympic Games 2022 to Africa and to Senegal.
“They have offered a project based on a strong vision for youth and sport. There are many opportunities, and we will endeavour to deliver together, as part of a strong partnership, a visionary, responsible and inspiring Youth Games.”
By Emmanuel Kwame Amoh|3news.com|Ghana