The long-awaited Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games (YOG) have officially launched their global “volunteer “Dakar 2026 Volunteer Programme”recruitment campaign. The programme — called Jambaar26, inspired by the Wolof word “jambaar” meaning “hero” — invites individuals from Senegal and around the world to become part of history by supporting the first-ever Olympic sporting event hosted in Africa.
Applications are open from 1 December 2025 until 31 January 2026, with more than 6,000 volunteer positions available across all functional areas of the Games. Registration is done exclusively online:
👉 https://jambaar26.apps.dakar2026.org/
Key Facts
- Application Window: 1 December 2025 – 31 January 2026
- Programme Name: Jambaar26 (“hero” in Wolof)
- Number of Volunteers Needed: 6,000+
- Eligibility: Open to everyone aged 18+ worldwide
- Languages Required: Basic French and English
- Volunteer Availability: Minimum 10 days during the Games
- Games Dates: 31 October – 13 November 2026
- Host Cities: Dakar, Diamniadio, Saly
- Official Announcement: Olympics.com
Table of Contents
What Is Jambaar26?
Jambaar26 pays tribute to the vital role volunteers play in the successful delivery of global sporting events. The programme is built around values such as:
- teamwork
- inclusion
- solidarity
- service to the community
Although a large number of applications are expected from Senegal, the programme is open to all nationalities, making it an excellent opportunity for international volunteers to experience West African culture and contribute to a historic Olympic milestone.
Volunteer Roles at Dakar 2026
Volunteers will support daily operations across both competition and non-competition venues, including:
- Sports operations
- Transport coordination
- Accreditation management
- Logistics and venue operations
- Ceremonies and protocol
- Media & broadcasting support
- Spectator services & fan experience
- Athlete and team support
These roles offer real-world experience behind the scenes of a major global event—ideal for students, young professionals, and individuals interested in sports management, event operations, journalism, or international relations.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the Dakar 2026 Volunteer Programme, you must:
- Be 18+ years old by the start of the Games
- Have basic knowledge of French and English
- Be available for at least 10 days during the Youth Olympic Games
- Participate in mandatory training sessions offered by the Organising Committee
There is no requirement for previous volunteer or sports experience.
National Volunteer Mobilisation Tour (1–7 December 2025)
To encourage strong nationwide participation, the Organising Committee (YOGOC) will organize a National Volunteer Tour across all 14 regions of Senegal.
Tour itinerary includes:
- 1 December: Thiès (launch event)
- 2 December: Fatick, Kédougou, Diourbel
- 3 December: Kaolack, Louga
- 4 December: Kolda
- 5 December: Kaffrine, Sédhiou
- 6 December: Saint-Louis
- 7 December: Matam, Tambacounda, Ziguinchor
- 14 December: Final national celebration in Dakar
During the tour, volunteers can meet organisers, learn about the application steps, understand available roles, and join information sessions delivered together with local communities and youth associations.
Why Volunteer for Dakar 2026?
✔ Be part of history – the first Olympic event ever held on the African continent
✔ Gain professional experience in event operations, logistics, media, and sports management
✔ Network with global participants from more than 200 countries
✔ Develop new skills through structured training
✔ Represent your community and culture on an international stage
✔ Support 2,700 young athletes competing at the Youth Olympic Games
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Visit: https://jambaar26.apps.dakar2026.org/
- Create a volunteer profile
- Fill out the online application form
- Select your preferred functional areas
- Submit before 31 January 2026
- Wait for selection & training schedule updates
About the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games
The Dakar 2026 YOG will host 2,700 young athletes (up to 17 years old) across three iconic Senegalese locations:
- Dakar – coastal, cultural and competitive hub
- Diamniadio – ultramodern sports and events district
- Saly – beachside tourism & competition zone
This edition marks a historic moment, symbolizing Africa’s debut as an Olympic host and showcasing youth, innovation, and unity.
FAQ
What is the Dakar 2026 Volunteer Programme (Jambaar26)?
Jambaar26 is the official volunteer programme of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, aiming to recruit more than 6,000 volunteers from Senegal and around the world to support event operations.
Who can apply for Dakar 2026 volunteering?
Anyone aged 18+ with basic French and English language skills can apply. You do not need previous volunteer experience.
Do I need to be Senegalese to apply?
No. The Dakar 2026 Volunteer Programme is open to international applicants from any country.
How do I apply for Jambaar26?
Applications are submitted online at:
👉 https://jambaar26.apps.dakar2026.org/
Deadline: 31 January 2026.
What volunteer roles are available at Dakar 2026?
Roles include logistics, ceremonies, media, transport, accreditation, spectator support, sports operations, venue services, and more.
Is there a fee to apply for the Dakar 2026 Volunteer Programme?
No. Participation in Jambaar26 is completely free.
What languages are required for volunteers?
Volunteers must have at least basic French and English. Additional languages are a plus.
Do volunteers receive accommodation and meals?
This has not yet been officially confirmed. Benefits will be shared by the Organising Committee during the selection and training stages.
How long do I need to be available?
Volunteers must commit to at least 10 days during the Youth Olympic Games (31 October – 13 November 2026).
Will volunteers receive official training?
Yes. All selected volunteers will undergo orientation and functional-area training provided by the YOG Organising Committee.
What is the National Volunteer Tour in Senegal?
From 1–7 December 2025, the YOGOC team will visit all 14 regions of Senegal to promote Jambaar26 and assist with registrations.
When will selected volunteers be informed?
Notifications will be issued after the application review and training scheduling phases (dates to be announced).
✨ Discover more here:
👉 https://oppotify.com
