Senegal hosts Africa’s first Olympics

More than 2,000 athletes from around the world are competing in Senegal at the Youth Olympic Games, the first Olympic event held in Africa. International Olympic Committee head Kirsty Coventry calls the Games a milestone for Senegal and the continent, which has the world’s largest youth population, and hopes they will inspire young people. Postponed by four years because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the event is also a test of Africa’s ability to host major international sports competitions. President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has welcomed the occasion, but economic challenges and criticism over spending have raised questions about the Games’ future and hosting costs.