Team Uganda begins Dakar 2026 Youth Olympics arrival with Otim, Ssebatindira leading the way

Team Uganda has begun settling into the Games Village in Dakar, Senegal, ahead of the 2026 Youth Olympic Games, with table tennis player Joseph Ssebatindira and rower Marcel Otim becoming the first Ugandan athletes to arrive.

Otim was the first to touch down, travelling directly from the United States before being received by Chef de Mission Lydia Gloria Ssanyu Dhamuzungu and Uganda Olympic Committee (UOC) administrator Elijah Njawuzi. The duo formed part of the advance team that arrived late last week to prepare for the contingent’s arrival and ensure a smooth transition into the Games Village.

Ssebatindira subsequently arrived alongside a group of officials comprising the National Council of Sports team administrator, team medic, safeguarding officer and media attaché. The group also included rowing coach Batenga Nakisozi, who will work alongside national rower Elijah Namunyu.

With the first arrivals now in the village, the Ugandan athletes have begun building connections and familiarising themselves with their new environment as preparations gather momentum for the continental milestone.

Both Ssebatindira and Otim have also received their Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition phones, provided by Olympic partner Samsung, adding to the excitement surrounding their participation in the Games.

More Athletes Arrive as Team Uganda Takes Shape

The Ugandan contingent is expected to grow with the arrival of more athletes and officials, with rugby, swimming and badminton among the disciplines set to strengthen the team’s presence in Dakar.

The rugby team, led by coach Peter Ochol, is scheduled to arrive alongside swimmers Zara Marie Mbanga, Peterson Inhensiko and Peyton Mary Suubi. Inhensiko is travelling from the United Kingdom, while Suubi is coming from the United States. They will be accompanied by swimming coach Ezekeri Kalali.

Badminton will also join the growing contingent, with player Ramiah Bukenya and coach William Kabindi expected to arrive.

Meanwhile, two rugby players, including Trey Gateja, swimmer Arthur Mwase and table tennis player Jemimah Nakawala will join their teammates later in the week after completing their academic commitments.

The 2026 Youth Olympic Games, taking place from October 31 to November 13, mark a historic moment for African sport, with Dakar becoming the first African city to host an Olympic sporting event.

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